The rise of e-cigarettes is a global phenomenon that governments are struggling to manage. With the vaping figures in Cyprus skyrocketing, the government joins a long list of concerned countries looking to curtail the habit.

In 2024, the e-cigarette market in Cyprus is expected to reach US$23.5 million, a growth of 2% from the previous year. The problem is that a large percentage of this sum can be attributed to teens and children. While the exact figures as to how many teens are addicted to vaping are unavailable, it is clear that the government is worried enough to consider taking drastic measures.

Why is the Cyprus government considering a vaping ban?

When vaping first burst onto the scene it was hailed as a safe alternative to smoking and has since been used extensively as a smoking cessation aid. While it is likely a better option for smokers than continuing cigarettes, there are increasing health concerns with e-cigarette usage.

Unfortunately, these health issues are far more likely to affect young people. This point was noted by Health Minister Michael Damianos. Speaking at the House Health Committee, he expressed concern that the rise in vaping is affecting the IQ of young people. He prompted MPs to act immediately to curb the “irrational use and sale of vaping devices.”

It is an opinion echoed by Professor Loizos Loizou, Chairman of the Association of Friends of Children with Cancer. The professor described vaping as a plague that has invaded young people and primary schools. He asked for emergency action to be taken or face a “big storm.”

The health concerns with vaping

Initially seen as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping is now being associated with numerous health risks. Many of these risks are more notable in young people whose bodies and brains are still developing.

Among the key health risks associated with vaping and teens are:

  • Brain development risks: Nicotine exposure during adolescence can disrupt brain development, impacting cognitive functions and memory.
  • Addiction potential: High nicotine levels in e-cigarettes increase the risk of addiction, with teens being more susceptible to long-term dependence.
  • Respiratory issues: Vaping can cause respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and asthma, by irritating the lungs.
  •  Unknown long-term effects: The long-term health impacts of vaping are still unclear, raising concerns about future health risks for young users.
  • Psychological effects: Nicotine addiction and stress may contribute to anxiety and depression among teens.

The problem is that these are only the health issues that we’re aware of. There could yet be long-term risks that are yet to become apparent. Essentially, vaping has the potential to be a “ticking time bomb.” This underscores further why the Cyprus government is considering such radical action.

Why a total vaping ban is unlikely: Exploring alternative strategies

Vaping has proven itself to be an effective method of stopping smoking. As such, an outright ban has to be considered unlikely. The global backlash that New Zealand faced after its proposed vape legislation is a testament to the complexity of the problem. The fact remains that in some instances, vaping is the lesser of two evils.

But the need to protect the younger generation remains, so in the absence of a total vaping ban several strategies can combine to help address the issue:

  • Enhanced legislation: Implementing stricter age verification and regulations on the sale and marketing of vaping products can limit teen access. Existing laws can be enforced more rigorously to prevent underage purchases.
  • Technological solutions: Schools and public places are increasingly using technology to detect and deter vaping. For example, vape sensors including those offered by HaloDetect are being widely installed in US schools and are playing an increasingly important role in reducing vaping in schools.
  • Educational programs: Comprehensive educational campaigns can inform teens about the risks of vaping. By integrating this into school curriculums and community outreach, awareness can be raised about the potential health impacts.
  • Support for quitting: Providing resources and support for teens who want to quit vaping, including counseling and nicotine replacement therapies, can help reduce dependence and encourage healthier choices.

This is the juggling act that governments across the globe are partaking in. On the one hand, the unprecedented rise of vaping has seen many rush to take action against vaping, including Australia, a country with one of the toughest anti-smoking stances in the world.

However, there are plenty of gray areas that can’t be dismissed, many ex-smokers can only call themselves that because of vaping, a complete ban will cut off a lifeline for those who want to give up.

Addressing the vaping problem

While a total ban on vaping in Cyprus may be impractical, a multi-pronged approach offers a more viable solution. By strengthening regulations, employing technological aids, enhancing education, and supporting cessation efforts, the government can address the rise in teen vaping effectively. This balanced strategy aims to protect young people while recognizing the role vaping can play in smoking cessation for adults.