They come in different flavors and are presented as a healthier alternative to classic cigarettes. But the reality is quite different. Studies show that 30 minutes of vaping leads to approximately the same spectrum of diseases as regular smoking. The blood vessels become stiffer, the airways narrower and the formation of blood clots increases. – It is very, very addictive. You can take in more nicotine when vaping than regular smoking, says Magnus Lundbäck in Efter fem. “Bought more because it’s fun” The persistence of the trend is accentuated by new figures from the Central Association for Alcohol and Narcotic Information (CAN), which show that one in four high school girls have indulged in vaping at some point in the past 30 days. – Of course you do that from time to time. But I don’t do it very often, now I bought more because it’s fun to buy because I’m 18, says Argo Corona from Stockholm. Above all, the products are marketed on social media, where influential people, among other things, entice people to flare up with the help of a plethora of candy-like flavors. Some sales to minors also take place on the same platforms. – It is quite upsetting that it has become like this and that new nicotine products appear on such a broad front, says Magnus Lundbäck. “Study and calculated” The pattern is reminiscent of the development in the USA. Just like here in Sweden, e-cigarettes were once introduced as a way to stop smoking, as smoking cessation. But the majority of those who start vaping are not 45-year-olds – but those who are recruited are children and young people who may never have smoked a cigarette before. – It is very elaborate and calculated to get children and young people as loyal customers for many years to come. It upsets me immensely, says Magnus Lundbäck.
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