WHO Warns of Nicotine Addiction Among Children Due to E‑Cigarettes!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm over a growing wave of nicotine addiction among children fueled by e‑cigarette use. The agency warned that these devices are increasingly being marketed to young people and trapping new generations in nicotine dependence. [1]
Key Concerns & Evidence
- Addiction Risk: WHO describes e‑cigarettes containing nicotine as “highly addictive” and warns that children experimenting with them may quickly develop strong dependence. [1]
- Harm to Youth: The organization notes that nicotine exposure can harm adolescent brain development, affect learning, attention, memory, and increase risks of mood disorders. [1]
- Aggressive Marketing: E‑cigarettes are often marketed with bright flavors, sleek designs, and youth‑oriented branding—tactics WHO says are designed to appeal to children. [2]
- Usage Trends: In some countries with available data, youth aged 13–15 use e‑cigarettes at rates higher than adults. [1]
- Global Estimates: WHO’s recent reporting suggests at least 15 million children use e‑cigarettes globally. [3]
WHO’s Recommendations & Call to Action
- WHO urges countries to implement strict regulations on e‑cigarettes, such as limiting flavours, restricting marketing, enforcing minimum age laws, and controlling nicotine strength. [1]
- The agency also calls for monitoring and surveillance to track youth use rates and enforce compliance. [1]
- Where e‑cigarettes are allowed, WHO recommends treating them with the same rigor as tobacco products, not as unregulated alternatives. [1]
Citations:
- World Health Organization: www.who.int/news/item/14-12-2023-urgent-action-needed-to-protect-children-and-prevent-the-uptake-of-e-cigarettes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- World Health Organization: www.who.int/westernpacific/newsroom/commentaries/detail/protect-children–unmask-the-appeal-and-get-rid-of-e-cigarettes?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Reuters: www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/who-estimates-least-15-million-teenagers-use-e-cigarettes-worldwide-2025-10-06/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
