The National Institute of Psychologists (NIP) experts advocate increasing the minimum vaping age from 18 to 21, as more youth are using e-cigarettes despite discouragement efforts. Vaping, initially promoted as a healthier smoking alternative, is now understood to be equally harmful.
Hendrik Roozen from NIP highlights the increased addiction risk for youths, whose brains are particularly susceptible to addictive substances. Research by the Trimbos Institute shows 70% of young vapers transition to smoking cigarettes.
Experts, including those at the Jellinek addiction care facility, emphasize the importance of early intervention, with age limits proving successful in reducing alcohol consumption among youths. From January 2024, flavored vapes are banned, and nicotine levels are regulated, but one in five youths aged 12 to 25 vaped last year.
In October, pediatricians expressed alarm over the “smartvape,” a multifunctional device that combines vaping with phone, messaging, music, and gaming capabilities, which pediatric pulmonologist Sophie Cohen criticized for its addictive potential.
Source: NOS