For decades, public health campaigns focused primarily on cigarettes. Today, however, health experts are increasingly concerned about a new threat—flavoured vaping products and modern nicotine devices that are attracting younger users worldwide.
On World No Tobacco Day 2026, doctors and public health authorities are highlighting how nicotine addiction is evolving through colourful packaging, sweet flavours, and aggressive marketing strategies aimed at younger audiences.
Many teenagers and young adults mistakenly believe vaping is safer than smoking. While some products may contain fewer toxic chemicals than conventional cigarettes, experts stress that they are far from harmless.
According to Dr. Vikas Maurya, Director and Head of Pulmonology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, nicotine remains highly addictive regardless of how it is delivered.
“Many young people start vaping believing it is just a harmless trend. What they often fail to realise is that nicotine can alter brain development, affect concentration, and create long-term addiction,” he explains.
Nicotine exposure during adolescence can interfere with areas of the brain responsible for learning, attention, and emotional regulation. This is especially concerning because the brain continues developing into a person’s mid-twenties.
Health experts are also worried about flavoured products. Fruit, mint, candy, and dessert-inspired flavours can make nicotine products more appealing to first-time users.
Apart from addiction, vaping has been linked to respiratory problems, throat irritation, chronic coughing, and potential cardiovascular risks. While research is ongoing, doctors say enough evidence already exists to warrant caution.
Another concern is the perception that vaping can help users quit smoking. While some smokers may use vaping products during smoking cessation attempts, experts warn that many people end up using both products simultaneously.
“The goal should always be freedom from nicotine addiction, not replacing one dependency with another,” says Dr. Maurya.
Parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals are being encouraged to educate young people about the realities of nicotine addiction. Social media trends and influencer marketing often present vaping as fashionable while overlooking health consequences.
Doctors also remind the public that smokeless tobacco products remain dangerous. Gutka, khaini, paan masala, and chewing tobacco continue to contribute significantly to oral cancer cases in India.
Fortunately, quitting tobacco and nicotine products can rapidly improve health. Within weeks, blood circulation and lung function begin recovering. Over time, risks of heart disease, stroke, and cancer gradually decline.
On World No Tobacco Day, experts are calling for stronger awareness efforts and stricter regulation of products targeting youth.
The message is simple: whether it comes in a cigarette, vape, pouch, or chewing tobacco packet, nicotine addiction remains a serious health threat that deserves urgent attention.
Leave a comment