Assoc. Prof. emphasized that the research findings are alarming. Dr. Çolak said, “Electronic cigarettes increase the risk of lung cancer, and depending on their use, the incidence of respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis and asthma also increases. “This situation clearly shows that electronic cigarettes are not an innocent habit,” he said.
Pointing out that electronic cigarettes are becoming increasingly common among young people, Assoc. Dr. Çolak gave the following figures:
“It was determined that the rate of electronic cigarette use among high school students in the United States, which was 1.5 percent in 2011, increased to 20.8 percent in 2018. In the 2017-2018 period, the rate of increase in e-cigarette use reached an alarming level of 78 percent. We are faced with a similar situation in European countries. It is reported that in countries such as Poland, Ukraine and Italy, the rate of electronic cigarette use among young people aged 11-17 is 20-30 percent for boys and 13-22 percent for girls. “These statistics reveal that the e-cigarette epidemic is affecting young people around the world.”
Assoc. Prof. pointed out that young people prefer electronic cigarettes with the perception that they are ‘less harmful’. Dr. Çolak said:
“Flavored contents, stylish designs, user-friendly functions and the possibility of discreet use increase the popularity of electronic cigarettes among young people. However, these devices contain nicotine, flavoring chemicals and toxic substances. Nicotine is addictive, negatively affects brain development, and can lead to learning disabilities. “In addition, e-cigarette use may facilitate the transition to tobacco products, pave the way for illegal substance use and cause negative effects on psychosocial health.”
Assoc. Prof. stated that the long-term damage that electronic cigarettes can cause to health is not fully understood, but the current data is warning enough. Dr. Dilşen Çolak used the following statements:
“It has been determined that some e-cigarette components cause cancer, and some substances increase the risk of heart and lung diseases. Exposure of the fetus to these emissions during pregnancy may adversely affect the development of the baby. “In addition, people around who are exposed to e-cigarette smoke are also at risk of secondhand smoke.”
Pointing out that lung cancer is a treatable disease if detected at an early stage, Assoc. Dr. Çolak continued his words as follows:
“The most effective method is to completely avoid risk factors. Quitting smoking and electronic cigarette use is one of the most important steps to take for a healthy life. As underlined by the World Health Organization (WHO), policy makers, families, educators and all segments of society must urgently develop and implement action plans to protect young people and children from this global epidemic.”
DHA