E-cigarette use in Europe drops to age 9: 2 countries issue bans... 'An important step for a tobacco-free generation'

The French Parliament has approved a bill banning the sale of disposable e-cigarettes. France, becoming the second European Union (EU) country to take this step after Belgium, based the ban on environmental impacts and negative consequences for young people. Minister for Relations with Parliament Patrick Mignola described the decision as 'an important step for a tobacco-free generation.'

According to data from the Kiel Institute for Therapy and Health Research, one in every 8 children between the ages of 9 and 13 tried using e-cigarettes in 2024. Among youth aged 14-17, this rate rose to 37.5 percent. The number of adult e-cigarette users in Germany has exceeded 2 million. The German Respiratory and Ventilation Medicine Society (DGP) has called on the federal government to take urgent action.

Speaking to Deutsches Arzteblatt, Prof. Dr. Wolfram Windisch demanded that e-cigarette bans be adopted by the German Parliament as well, stating the following:

'The new government should not waste time in preventing a generation addicted to nicotine. Disposable e-cigarettes pose a serious public health threat, especially for young people.'

E-cigarettes allow for the intake of nicotine through flavored vapor. However, experts warn that some toxic substances found in these products can lead to lung and heart diseases. The products, which attract attention with their colorful designs and various flavors such as strawberry, cotton candy, and mint, have become widespread, especially among young people.

News Source: 12punto