E-cigarettes and the Prevention of Vaping among Children and Adolescents: Challenges and the Role of Community Nurses

Abstract

Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, have become a significant and steadily increasing public health concern in Thailand, particularly among children and adolescents. Many users believe that e-cigarettes are safer than traditional cigarettes, less addictive, and useful for smoking cessation. However, numerous studies in Thailand and abroad have confirmed that e-cigarettes contain highly addictive nicotine, as well as heavy metals, carcinogens, and a various other harmful chemicals found in flavored e-liquids. Misconceptions about the safety of e-cigarettes remain widespread among young people. This article aims to highlight the growing problem of e-cigarette use among children and adolescents in communities, define the behavior of e-cigarette use, explore influential factors, and describe the impact of e-cigarettes on young people. Furthermore, it proposes the role of community nurses in preventing e-cigarette use through the three levels of disease prevention. These recommendations serve as practical guidelines for community health practitioners to apply evidence-based strategies to effectively prevent e-cigarette use in local communities.