ISLAMABAD – The growing popularity of flavoured vapes—marketed in eye-catching colours and sweet scents like mango, berry, and bubblegum—is raising serious concerns about nicotine addiction among teenagers in Pakistan.
What began as a smoking alternative for adults has rapidly become a youth-driven trend, with vape pens now seen as fashion accessories more than cessation tools. Students as young as 14 are reportedly using them regularly, often purchasing from small shops or online sellers with no age verification in place.
Despite their playful packaging, many of these devices contain high levels of nicotine and chemicals that pose long-term health risks. Doctors warn that young users are especially vulnerable to nicotine dependency, which can affect brain development and increase the likelihood of switching to cigarettes or other substances later in life.
The lack of clear regulation and enforcement has made it easy for underage users to access vapes. Street vendors and local retailers often stock imported devices and flavoured liquids without any oversight, and public awareness about their risks remains low.
Calls are growing for the government to impose stricter controls—such as limiting flavours, introducing age checks, and launching health campaigns in schools—to address what health experts are calling a “silent addiction crisis.”
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.