The doctors of Doctors Sound the Alarm to combat the electronic cigarette (vape) and its harm to young people. With factual information Doctors Sound the Alarm parents and caregivers point out the dangers of vaping. The campaign can be seen and heard on TV, radio, social media, in the newspaper and on the street.
(A lot) of toxic and addictive nicotine
The doctors share four facts about vaping, which according to them are not yet well known enough. For example, many vapes release more toxic and addictive nicotine than an entire pack of cigarettes. Nicotine disrupts brain development and that is irreversible. The substance also increases the risk of various psychological problems and young people who vape are three times more likely to switch to cigarettes, the doctors said. “The tobacco industry doesn’t tell us this, so we doctors do,” is their motto.
Damage to your brain
“A vape looks fun, hip and colorful,” pediatric pulmonologist Noor Rikkers previously told Kidsweek. ‘It doesn’t make you feel like you’re smoking or doing something unhealthy at all. That you are doing something cool. But it is very harmful. First of all, because it contains nicotine. That substance is extremely addictive, just like heavy drugs. Nicotine causes irreversible damage to your brain. Particularly in the area that ensures that you make wise decisions and can concentrate well. Parents and teachers tell us that they see drowsy and nauseous children in the classroom.’ Vapers are also more likely to suffer from heart and lung diseases.
Tobacco companies want to get children addicted
In addition, the younger you start, the easier it is to become addicted. “If children start vaping, they are three times more likely to smoke later.” And that’s exactly what companies that make cigarettes want. ‘They can earn the most money from children, because they last the longest. Very bitter.’ Rikkers hopes that her message reaches as many children as possible. ‘So hopefully we won’t see them again in the hospital later.’
