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Urgent measures sought to curb vaping among the youth

20 Oct 2024 Urgent measures sought to curb vaping among the youth By OUR CORRESPONDENT

Muscat – With e-cigarette use continuing to rise among adolescents, the need for effective awareness programmes has become urgent. From educational workshops and social media campaigns to stricter regulations and community outreach programmes, here’s what Muscat Daily readers suggested as measures to combat the growing trend of e-cigarette use among the youth –

Javed Ali, Engineer

Schools should hold programmes where health experts talk about the dangers of e-cigarette use. Interactive sessions with real-life examples can help adolescents understand the long-term effects. Involving parents and educators in these programmes is also recommended.

Neha Sharma, Teacher

I believe that creating engaging content, like videos and social media challenges, tailored to adolescents can be impactful. Also, introducing e-cigarette awareness in the curriculum as part of health education could deter them from using e-cigarettes.

Ahmed al Amri, Businessman

Government agencies should run nationwide media campaigns targeting young people. Schools can support this by forming mentorship programmes where older students educate younger ones about the risks of e-cigarettes. Offering alternative activities, like sports, will also discourage teens from experimenting with smoking.

Sara Khan, Housewife

Community outreach programmes involving schools, local health organisations and social clubs, could be effective. Health talks, documentaries and open discussions on the harmful chemicals in e-cigarettes will raise awareness. Collaborating with social media influencers to spread anti-vaping messages can also be effective.

Faisal al Balushi, Accountant

Schools should conduct workshops for parents to educate them on the dangers of e-cigarettes so they can communicate this to their children. Authorities could also enforce stricter regulations on sales and advertisements targeting adolescents.

Sadiq Khan, Private sector employee

Interactive digital platforms can be a great way to spread awareness. Schools can create apps or websites where students learn about the health risks associated with vaping. Also, I believe students who are habitual offenders must be punished.

Parameswaran Padmanabhan, Teacher

Schools must organise health awareness sessions at least once in an academic year. Teachers should be vigilant and monitor the movement of students during class breaks. Morning school assembly should be based on themes of good health and self-discipline.

Ashish Wilfred, Engineer

Raising awareness about e-cigarette risks among adolescents can involve school programmes, peer education and social media outreach. Hosting community forums and parent workshops can help raise awareness, while interactive apps can engage the youth. Collaborating with influencers and advocating policy changes will enhance efforts to educate and protect young people from vaping.

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