Concerns are rising about the increasing use of e-cigarettes among children and youth in Thailand, as health officials warn of their potential dangers. On March 4, 2025, Dr. Phatayaphanu Matya Natwet Sakul, Director of the Disease Control Division, highlighted the concerning trend, stating, "E-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular among children and youth, and they carry significant health risks." This upsurge is attributed to the attractive designs of e-cigarettes which lure young users, often masking their harmful contents.
E-cigarettes are marketed with perceived friendly aesthetics, but they contain various chemicals and substances known to be harmful to health. The chief concern is nicotine, which can be particularly addictive. "Nicotine is highly addictive, especially for young users," Dr. Chailumphol Osothphromma from the Office of Disease Prevention and Control 12, Songkhla explained. This high level of addiction can set young people on the path to using more dangerous drugs later on.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from 2023, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among youths has become so alarming, it is sparking calls for serious intervention. The health impacts associated with e-cigarettes include exposure to numerous harmful chemicals linked to cancer, some of which are present at high concentrations compared to traditional cigarettes. This reality is creating concerns about the long-term health effects on young users.
Health officials are advocating for comprehensive awareness programs targeting parents, educators, and youths to help combat this worrying trend. Dr. Sakul urged the community, particularly parents and caregivers, to reinforce the message about the dangers of e-cigarettes, helping to immunize children against the temptations of usage. He expressed, "We need more initiatives to build immunity for the youth against e-cigarettes, ensuring they are aware of the risks involved." Education around the topic is pivotal and must come from multiple angles including schools, media campaigns, and community discussions.
Not only is addressing e-cigarette use important, but it is also timely with influenza season upon Thailand. The Office of Disease Prevention and Control has identified seven risk groups who are especially urged to get vaccinated against influenza. This group includes children aged six months to two years, seniors aged 65 and older, and pregnant women among others. Tackling e-cigarette use and promoting vaccination are both seen as imperative public health strategies.
The disease control office noted, "Influenza is infectious and transmitted through respiratory droplets, which affects all age groups, but particularly those at greater health risks." The office provided clear guidelines with the principle “close, clean, avoid, stop” to help individuals protect themselves from both illnesses effectively. It’s fundamental to wash hands frequently, cover mouths when coughing, and avoid close contact with sick individuals.
Dr. Osothphromma emphasized, “If symptoms such as shortness of breath arise, or if someone is feeling unwell, they should seek immediate medical assistance.” This statement reinforces the importance of not only preventing e-cigarette usage but also being proactive with influenza vaccinations.
The simultaneous challenge of rising e-cigarette use and seasonal flu underlines the need for integrated health awareness. Communities are encouraged to engage actively, providing education and resources to keep the younger populations safe. This includes promoting healthy lifestyle choices, free from addictive substances like nicotine.
The actions taken now will influence future public health landscapes, and each effort is necessary to empower the next generation against substances harmful to their health.
Health agencies call on the public to assist by reporting any illicit e-cigarette sales observed, emphasizing the need for collective action: "Join us to protect children and youth from e-cigarettes." The fight against these twin health issues is not just for individuals but for society as a whole, working together to decrease risks for the youth and empower healthier choices.
For more information or to report issues related to e-cigarette sales, individuals can reach out to local health officials or contact the national health hotline for guidance.