Deadly addiction: strategies for smoking cessation to live longer
In the heart of Russia, a pressing issue has come to the forefront: the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes and vapes among children and teenagers. Amidst this concern, Svetlana Chernyshova, the Chairman of the regional Public Council on the problem of teenage smoking, is advocating for a nuanced approach to the issue.
Despite a decrease in traditional cigarette smoking among youngsters, modern nicotine devices like e-cigarettes and vapes have gained traction. Teenagers are drawn to these products for their modern appearance, pleasant aromas, and advertising. However, their appeal is not limited to the legal market. Many vapes and e-liquids are illegally imported into the country, significantly increasing the risks to young smokers' health.
Svetlana Chernyshova warns that the health of these young smokers is at great risk due to the chemicals in electronic cigarettes and vapes. Contrary to what sellers claim, these products contain chemicals that are harmful to health, despite supposedly having no nicotine. This ignorance of the law does not exempt individuals from responsibility for its violation in Russia.
The fines for selling cigarettes to minors in Russia were increased in February 2025, with the owner of a trading point facing up to 2 million rubles and the seller up to 300 thousand rubles. Yet, Svetlana Chernyshova and her colleagues are engaged in educating shop owners and sellers about the laws regarding the sale of tobacco products to minors in Russia.
Svetlana Chernyshova advises teenagers to be aware of these risks and to consider the long-term health risks associated with these products. The negative effects may not be immediately apparent, but they could have significant consequences in the future. For those who have tried cigarettes or vapes but are unsure if they'll continue, she encourages contemplation of these long-term risks.
Parents may not always notice or realize that a child has become addicted to electronic cigarettes or vapes. More than half of Russian adult smokers first tried cigarettes as schoolchildren, underscoring the need for education and awareness among young people.
The State Duma of Russia is considering a law to fully ban electronic cigarettes, but Svetlana Chernyshova has a cautious stance on the matter. She believes that a complete ban could be problematic, as many adults use these products as a conscious choice. Instead, she suggests describing all possible risks associated with smoking and vaping to teenagers in an effort to convince them to quit.
Science cannot yet give a precise answer about the long-term health effects of electronic cigarettes and vapes, but new diagnoses are emerging. As the debate continues, Svetlana Chernyshova's voice stands as a beacon of reason, advocating for education, awareness, and a balanced approach to this complex issue.
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