THEY look like candy or bubblegum and smell like strawberries, mango or other fruits. But these sweet little treats are actually vapes that are laced with nicotine and, in some cases, even drugs. And they are finding their way into the hands of children who are curious, pressured to take them or are simply unaware of the harm associated with them.
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Experts warn that these substances when vaped or eaten can cause dizziness, confusion and long-term damage to brains that are still developing. Even one try can do real harm.
Despite the restrictions provided under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, which include prohibiting the sale, advertising and promotion of vape products, children in schools are still getting their hands on these items.
Most of these products contain levels of nicotine that are strong enough to rewire a young brain, increase the risk of addiction and cloud judgment.
In neighbouring countries, authorities have even found vapes mixed with drugs or anaesthetics.
Sometimes, it is easy to miss the signs that children are using these substances, but parents can look out for:
Unusual tiredness or dizziness;
Sudden mood changes or secretive behaviour; or
A drop in school performance.
Catching children in the early stage of vaping makes a huge difference. And just as important is teaching them to say no when they sense that something doesn’t feel right.
Schools, parents or the government cannot solve this issue in silo. It takes all of society to do so.
In schools, teachers and staff can talk openly about the risks not just during assemblies but also in real conversations. They can also be trained to spot early warning signs.
Parents can create safe spaces for honest conversations without fear or judgment. Sometimes, just asking “Have you ever been offered something like this?” can open the door for conversations.
The government can further tighten regulations on vape products and make sure that accurate information reaches families before problems arise.
We need to get the message out there: “Strawberries are not always sweet. Sometimes, they are dangerous.”
The innocence of youth is being targeted in ways that feel playful but carry lifelong consequences. But with awareness, a watchful eye and honest conversations, we can help protect our children from dangers hiding in plain sight.
K.T MARAN Social, Environmental & Animal Activist
K.T. Maran (maran.kt@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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