A strong warning about the electronic cigarette risks – particularly for young people – was issued by Christos Minas, president of the Cyprus Addiction Authority, speaking on the TV programme Protoselido.
Referring to recent research findings and the growing public debate around vaping, Minas dismissed the myth of electronic cigarettes as a “safe alternative” and warned that Cyprus is facing the risk of a new generation of nicotine-dependent users.
A long-standing trend disguised as a fashion
Minas described electronic cigarettes as a “fashion” that is anything but short-lived. Originating in China around two decades ago, vaping has since spread globally and become deeply embedded in youth culture.
Data presented during the discussion showed that nearly 44% of 16-year-olds in Europe have tried an electronic cigarette at least once. In Cyprus, the figure stands at 35%. Over the past month, 22% of young people in Europe reported vaping, compared to 16% in Cyprus.
Particularly concerning, according to Minas, is daily use. Cyprus records higher rates of daily vaping among young people, at 11%, compared with 9% across Europe.
Vaping as an everyday “accessory”
Electronic cigarettes, he noted, have become part of everyday life, treated as accessories or gadgets similar to mobile phones. The lack of strong odour and the rise of disposable devices make vaping harder for parents to detect and, in some cases, allow use even in areas where smoking is strictly prohibited.
Marketing strategies targeting youth
Minas pointed to aggressive promotion by the tobacco industry, driven largely through social media and youth-focused marketing. These strategies foster the perception that vaping is cleaner, safer, or even a tool for quitting conventional cigarettes – an argument frequently echoed by users themselves.
Health risks and scientific uncertainty
Addressing health concerns, Minas said both the World Health Organization and the European Commission refer to vaping as a “modified risk” product. While some risks may differ from those of traditional cigarettes, new dangers are emerging and may take decades to be fully understood.
The aerosol produced by electronic cigarettes contains numerous chemical substances, including humectants, flavourings, free radicals, and other compounds. At least 70 chemical components have already been identified.
Serious impact on the developing brain
The greatest concern, Minas stressed, is the effect on the developing brain, which continues to mature until around the age of 25. Nicotine is highly addictive and toxic to the developing brain, damaging neural pathways and reinforcing addiction mechanisms through the brain’s reward system.
Even when users recognise the harm, quitting becomes extremely difficult. Instead of eliminating conventional smoking, society risks creating a new generation dependent on electronic cigarettes, often with even higher nicotine concentrations.
Gaps in legislation and enforcement
In Cyprus, electronic cigarettes containing nicotine fall under existing smoking legislation. Their use is banned in enclosed public spaces, sales to minors under 18 are prohibited, and health warnings are required.
However, Minas acknowledged significant gaps, particularly regarding nicotine-free electronic cigarettes, which are not adequately covered by current laws. He also highlighted problems with insufficient or misleading product labelling.
Prevention through strict enforcement and education
According to Minas, the most effective prevention tool is strict enforcement of legislation. He cited examples from abroad where ID checks are mandatory for purchasing adult-only products.
He also referred to the launch, in January in Limassol, of the pan-European “Relief” programme, involving the Cyprus Addiction Authority, with scientific coordination by Cyprus University of Technology and Cyprus Institute. The programme aims to develop evidence-based interventions in schools and communities.
Clear message to young people
Closing his remarks, Minas delivered a clear message to young people: vaping devices are not harmless gadgets. They can lead to serious addiction, often alongside conventional smoking, and may act as a gateway to other substances.
“There are no harmless vaping products,” he said, stressing that the best way to protect health is complete abstinence from all forms of tobacco, along with zero alcohol consumption.
Also read: A major study affirms that paracetamol is pregnancy safe
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
