Doctor explains: Why the illusion of ‘safe nicotine’ is fuelling a new youth addiction crisis
Doctors warn that young people are becoming addicted to nicotine through vaping and pouches due to the mistaken belief that smoke-free products are safe.Summary
Public health efforts to reduce smoking have inadvertently led to a rise in vaping and nicotine pouch use among adolescents. Dr Praveen Gupta explains that sleek designs, sweet flavours, and influencer marketing have normalised these products, leading young people who have never smoked cigarettes to become heavily dependent. The doctor emphasizes that nicotine is highly addictive and affects brain development, cardiovascular health, and mood regulation. He warns that the absence of smoke does not mean safety, as modern devices can deliver high nicotine concentrations. Furthermore, nicotine is increasingly used as a coping mechanism for stress and social pressure. Gupta concludes that without stronger regulation and open, evidence-based education, society risks creating a generation addicted to nicotine under the illusion of smoke-free safety.
(Source：Firstpost)
