Youth Lung Health at Risk: Vapes Banned but Available

Doctors in India are expressing grave concerns over the widespread availability of e-cigarettes and disposable vapes, particularly their increasing use among young individuals. This trend poses significant risks to lung health, even though e-cigarettes have been officially banned in the country since 2019 under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act. Health experts note that enforcement of the ban remains a substantial challenge, leading to continued illegal sales through various channels.

Pulmonologists emphasize that vaping is far from a safe alternative to traditional smoking. The aerosol inhaled from these devices contains nicotine and other harmful chemicals that can irritate airways and damage lung tissue. For young people, whose lungs are still developing, the addictive nature of nicotine and the direct harm to respiratory systems can have severe consequences, including chronic cough, breathlessness, and reduced lung function. This situation prompts calls for more stringent measures against illegal sales and greater educational outreach.