Debunk e-cigarette myth

E-cigarettes. [iStockphoto]

A study by the Brain and Mind Institute at Aga Khan University, Nairobi, shows an exponential rise in the number of youths who smoke e-cigarettes. Most affected by this new fad in town are those in the Generation Z bracket (1997-2012) and Millennials (1981-1996).

Unaware of the effects, most of the youths who smoke e-cigarettes believe it is fashionable and a statement about their social status.

Many smokers mistakenly believe that e-cigarettes, which is nicotine inhaled in vapour form, are relatively safer compared to the actual smoking of cigarettes. This is a fallacy that should be debunked.

Nicotine is a stimulant in cigarettes that impacts the brain and could lead to long-term negative effects on learning and anxiety disorders.

Moreover, smoking increases the risk of contracting tuberculosis. E-cigarettes should be discouraged, just like cigarettes.