Vaping has become commonplace among Generation Z, or people who were born between 1997 and 2012. Zoomers see vaping as a safe alternative to smoking tobacco, however vaping is still harmful to people and can lead to negative effects.
The act of vaping involves using an electronic cigarette to inhale vapor produced by heating liquid containing chemicals. One of the most common chemicals used for vaping is nicotine, which would then develop into a nicotine addiction.
The negative effects of nicotine can harm healthy brain development for teenagers and young adults. It becomes harder for them to concentrate, learn, or control their emotions.
“I started vaping when I was 17 because all my friends did it. It felt harmless at first, but now I can’t go a few hours without it. I didn’t think it would be this addictive.” Alyssa, 19, College Student.
The main reason why Gen Z people vaped was to reduce stress or use it to quit smoking. Those who were in their adolescents also vaped because they either enjoyed it and wanted to fit in due to social influence.
“Honestly, I don’t vape, but I feel like I’m in the minority. Most of my friends do, and they don’t think it’s a big deal. It’s just part of our culture now.” Meera, 19, Sheridan student.
Most youths vape in social situations like at school or at parties. Some people even create opportunities to vape when they get the chance.
“Vapes are everywhere—cafes, classrooms, even workplaces. The flavors make it feel less harmful than smoking, but I know it’s probably just as bad.” Jason, 25, worker from Vape store.
Vaping rates have been increasing across Canada and is more commonly found in 15 to 24 year olds than for older people. Since 2019, around 14 percent of youths aged 15 to 19 reported having vaped in the last 30 days and 69 percent of youths who vaped have never tried tobacco in their life.
Among 15 to 17 year olds, vaping was more common for males than females. People who were born in Canada were more likely to vape than people who came from a foreign background.
During the beginning of the Pandemic, there was a reduction of vaping for youths. However, this reduction didn’t persist in the later stages of the Pandemic.
In a report by Public Health Ontario, approximately 1 to 5 students in grades 7 to 12 reported using a vaping device. Those who used a vape device reported that they had poor mental health or had a poor relationship with their parents at home.
Even after the Pandemic, vaping still remains prevalent for youths and young adults.
The overwhelming effects vaping has had on Gen Z people has become negatively impactful to their future endeavours.