Vaping has become an ‘epidemic’ among teenagers

The increase in vaping in the city, particularly among teenagers, is causing serious concern.

Derry Now has been contacted by one mother of teens distressed by what she described as the “surge” in vaping rates locally.

Preferring to remain anonymous, she said vaping had now become “mainstream”.

“Children are drawn to the sleek devices and sugary fruit flavours, but the risks associated with vaping are far from sweet,” she added.

“One reason why vaping has become so prevalent among teens is the belief that it is safer than smoking traditional cigarettes. However, while e-cigarettes lack the same carcinogens found in tobacco smoke, they contain nicotine, a highly addictive and harmful substance.

“Nicotine can damage the developing brains of young people, leading to long-term effects on learning, memory, and attention.

“There is also a strong social aspect. Many young people see vaping as a way to fit in with their peers or to rebel against authority, particularly in school settings where the desire to fit in can be high.

“In fact, it has become a common occurrence to vape in schools, even secretly in classrooms. Disposable vapes offer a discreet way for children to hide them in their blazer sleeves, while school staff remain oblivious,” she revealed.

The mother added that one of Britain’s leading respiratory doctors, Dr Mike McKean, vice-president of policy for the Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health said vaping was becoming an ‘epidemic’ among teenagers, even though it is illegal under the age of 18.

“Dr McKean has warned that without urgent regulation, young people may develop long-term addictions and suffer lung damage,” she said.

“He predicts that if current rates of growth continue, nearly all children will have tried vaping within the next five years,” said the parent.

“Recent figures from the NHS indicate that e-cigarette use among children aged 11 to 15 has risen to 9%, up from 6% in 2018, with 15-year-old's having the highest prevalence of 18%.

“Unfortunately, parents and young people may not fully understand the risks of vaping, due to a lack of awareness, education, or exposure to misinformation. Some parents have even been reported to buy their children as young as 11 these vapes.

“The risks of vaping far outweigh any perceived benefits. In addition to the harmful effects of nicotine on the developing brain, vaping can also lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and even cancer. The chemicals used to flavour e-cigarettes have not been tested for safety when inhaled, and the long-term effects of vaping are unknown.

“More, there is evidence to suggest that vaping can act as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. A study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that teens who used e-cigarettes were more likely to start smoking cigarettes within 6 months,” she said.

The mother called for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to work together to discourage young people from vaping.

“Education campaigns highlighting the dangers of e-cigarettes, and policies that restrict the sale of these products to minors, are essential. 

This should include repackaging disposal vapes in plain packaging and treating the issue as serious. 

The popularity of vaping among teenagers is a growing concern, and it is vital that we take action to protect them from the harmful effects of these devices.

By working together, we can ensure that the next generation is free from the dangers of vaping and tobacco use.”