E-cigarettes and Vaping: A Global Risk for Adolescents

While the marketing and sale of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in India is forbidden since September, 2019, vaping represents a significant risk to the health and safety of Indian adolescents. Though the prevalence of youth e-cigarette use in India remains unknown, pediatricians are often brought to provide care to youth who vape. In this commentary, background information on e-cigarettes including a review of the different types of vaping devices and of the substances contained in e-cigarette liquids is provided. The short- and long-term health risks associated with vaping, including risks for the developing brain, acute lung injuries and long-term mental health effects, and a practical approach for clinical management of e-cigarette use for Indian pediatricians is presented. Public health measures to prevent and reduce youth vaping and a review of current Indian laws and policies around e-cigarette use are also mentioned.