E-CIGARETTE USE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE: IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

The use of e-cigarettes has been expanding rapidly among young people, driven by aggressive marketing strategies, the wide availability of attractive flavors, and the misperception that they represent a safe alternative to traditional smoking. However, recent studies point to significant concerns regarding the impacts of this habit on the health and behavior of adolescents and young adults. This study aimed to review the literature on the effects of e-cigarette use in the young population, with emphasis on physical, behavioral, and social aspects. The review was carried out in the SciELO, PubMed, and Lilacs databases, considering articles published between 2013 and 2023. The findings indicate that the consumption of e-cigarettes can lead to nicotine dependence, with an impact on neurological development, in addition to being associated with lung diseases, such as lung injury associated with the use of vaping products (EVALI). Additionally, there is evidence that vaping can influence behavioral changes, including increased impulsivity and a greater predisposition to the use of other substances, such as conventional cigarettes and illicit drugs. In view of these risks, it is concluded that stricter regulatory measures, educational campaigns and prevention programs are essential to contain the growth of this habit among young people. Restricting the commercialization, controlling advertising, and expanding supervision over the sale of these products are essential strategies to reduce damage to public health and avoid the normalization of the use of electronic cigarettes among adolescents.