Distressing Reality: Mumbai School Students Show Growing Interest and Familiarity with E-Cigarettes

In the ever-evolving landscape of nicotine, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have gained popularity as devices that deliver nicotine and other chemicals to users in the form of aerosol without the need for combustion. The study examines increasing use of e-cigarettes among under-resourced adolescents in Mumbai's municipal and government schools.

We used purposive sampling to recruit 72 students of Grade 8 and 9 from nine Mumbai municipal schools, enrolled in the Salaam Bombay programme, based on their willingness and ability to discuss e-cigarettes. We used thematic analysis to analyse interview data.

Results reveal that despite financial constraints, curiosity and misconceptions about safety these teens are drawn to e-cigarettes. Peer pressure and strategies to bypass bans exacerbate the trend. While the students are aware of ban on e-cigarettes, their understanding about the regulations remains limited. The 2019 Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA), while not entirely eradicating e-cigarette availability, has had a surprisingly positive impact. Informing the participants about legal consequences outlined in PECA triggered fear and a shift towards discreet consumption. This suggests that the law serves as an effective deterrent in curbing adolescent use. This research emphasizes the significance of PECA in reducing e-cigarette use among adolescents, advocating for its sustained and potentially amplified application.

The study concludes that PECA alone is insufficient to address this complex issue. It calls for a comprehensive strategy, including targeted interventions that address peer pressure, online influences, and greater involvement of families to protect adolescents from dangers of e-cigarettes. A multi-faceted approach that includes education, legal enforcement, and community engagement is essential to combat this complex public health issue effectively.