This episode, hosted by Sebastián Oliel from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), focuses on the growing use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among youth in the Americas, coinciding with World No Tobacco Day 2025. The discussion features two experts: Rosa Sandoval, Regional Advisor on Tobacco Control at PAHO, and Inti Barrientos, a communication expert and researcher from Mexico’s National Institute of Public Health.
Key Topics Discussed
1. What Are E-Cigarettes and Their Health Risks?
E-cigarettes are electronic nicotine delivery systems that heat a liquid to produce an aerosol, which is inhaled.
They are not harmless: they can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues, increase heart rate and blood pressure, and are linked to EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury).
Nicotine, present in most of these products, is highly addictive.
2. Youth Consumption Trends
5.4% of adolescents in the Americas use e-cigarettes—similar to the percentage of adolescents that use traditional cigarettes.
Usage is equally prevalent among boys and girls, especially in the 13–15 age group.
E-cigarettes are often the gateway to traditional smoking.
3. Myths and Misconceptions
Many believe e-cigarettes are safer or help quit smoking, but evidence shows:
They often lead to dual use (e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes).
They are not effective cessation tools for most users, especially youth.
4. How to Quit
Seek help from health services or digital tools like PAHO’s virtual health worker, Sarah.
Practical tips include:
Set a quit date.
Build a support network.
Remove nicotine products from your environment.
Anticipate and plan for triggers.
5. Policy Recommendations
Raise prices through taxation to deter youth.
Ban use in public spaces, including e-cigarettes.
Mandate health warnings on packaging.
Prohibit advertising, promotion, and sponsorship.
Some countries have banned e-cigarette sales entirely.
6. Industry Tactics to Attract Youth
Use of flavors, colorful and concealable designs, and misleading marketing.
Products are disguised as school supplies or toys.
The industry funds pro-vaping groups to spread misinformation and influence legislation.
7. World No Tobacco Day 2025 Theme
“Unmask the appeal of tobacco and nicotine products.” (creo que el tema es : “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.”
Focuses on exposing how these products are marketed to youth using flavors, deceptive packaging, and social media.
Conclusion
E-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to smoking. They are part of a broader strategy by the tobacco industry to hook a new generation. Through education, regulation, and support, individuals and governments can combat this growing public health threat.
