Kenya's Youth Vaping Crisis: A Shocking New Report

Kenya Grapples with Youth Vaping Crisis: Health Risks and Underground Market Exposed Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya is facing a growing health crisis as vaping among teenagers and young adults surges. Despite a government ban on nicotine products, a recent study reveals a shocking number of students using e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The study, conducted across 17 public and private universities, found that 45.6% of students had used at least one nicotine product in their lifetime, with 26.6% being current users. "You have to know the right people. But they are everywhere. I know I am addicted. I don’t even know how to quit," shared one young woman interviewed for the NTV Kenya report. This highlights the ease of access to these banned substances. The cost of maintaining a vaping habit is also significant, with some users spending up to 12,000 Kenyan shillings a month. Health professionals warn of the severe health consequences, including nicotine poisoning, particularly when nicotine pouches are ingested rather than inhaled. The NTV report underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of existing regulations to protect Kenya's youth from the dangers of vaping.