The Health Risks of Electronic Cigarettes Use in Adolescents.

The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and other types of vaping devices has risen in popularity, particularly among teenagers. Several studies indicate that e-cigarettes might help smokers quit tobacco cigarettes, benefiting their long-term health.2 However, further studies suggest that vaping may be driving an increase in nicotine use for teens, caused by their exposure to elevated levels of this alkaloid. Due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine, it has been hypothesized that young vaping device users might switch from their initial use to traditional cigarettes, or that nicotine exposure may function as a gateway to drugs. Concern also was raised on the risks of exposure to other chemicals through vaping. Acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary illnesses, and asthma have been reported to be induced by vaping substances.The Minnesota Department of Health reported that a significant number of patients have been classified as having e-cigarette, or vaping, product use–associated lung injury.The working group on social pediatrics and public health of the European Paediatric Association/Union of National European Paediatric Societies and Associations is actively engaged in monitoring health and wellbeing. The purpose of this commentary is to raise the attention of healthcare professionals on the escalating use of e-cigarettes and vaping among adolescents, and the possible health implications of this broad social phenomenon.