Introduction:
E-cigarettes, also known as electronic cigarettes or Vaping devices, have gained popularity worldwide, including among youth. Thailand, a Southeast Asian country with a history of strict tobacco control policies, has not been immune to this trend. This article explores the use of e-cigarettes among Thai youth and examines the associated factors contributing to their prevalence.

The Prevalence of E-Cigarette Use among Thai Youth: E-cigarette use among Thai youth has been on the rise in recent years. While tobacco smoking rates have been declining due to stringent anti-smoking measures, e-cigarettes have emerged as an alternative nicotine delivery system for many young people. According to the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), conducted in 2019, the prevalence of e-cigarette use among Thai adolescents aged 13-15 was approximately 15.4%.

Factors Contributing to E-Cigarette Use Among Thai Youth: Several factors have contributed to the growing popularity of e-cigarettes among Thai youth:

  1. Perceived Harm Reduction: Many young people believe that e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes. They may perceive vaping as a safer alternative to smoking, despite limited evidence supporting this claim.
  2. Flavor Variety: E-cigarettes come in a wide range of appealing flavors, from fruit to dessert flavors, making them attractive to youth. These flavors can mask the harshness of nicotine, making it more palatable.
  3. Peer Pressure: Peer influence plays a significant role in the initiation of e-cigarette use. Youth may be more likely to try e-cigarettes if their friends or peers are using them, creating a social norm around vaping.
  4. Marketing and Promotion: Aggressive marketing and promotion by e-cigarette companies, both online and offline, have targeted young consumers in Thailand. Youth-oriented advertising, sponsorships of events, and online campaigns have increased awareness and access to these products.
  5. Accessibility: E-cigarettes are readily available in convenience stores, vape shops, and online markets. Easy access to these products makes them more appealing to youth.
  6. Lack of Regulation: The regulatory framework for e-cigarettes in Thailand is not as comprehensive as that for traditional tobacco products. This regulatory gap has allowed the e-cigarette industry to flourish, making it difficult to control their accessibility to youth.

Health Concerns and Risks: The rise in e-cigarette use among Thai youth has raised significant health concerns. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harm brain development in adolescents. Moreover, there is a growing body of evidence linking e-cigarette use to various health issues, including respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to address these concerns to protect the health of Thai youth.

Government Response and Policy Recommendations: The Thai government has taken steps to address the increasing use of e-cigarettes among youth. Some of the measures include:

  1. Banning E-cigarette Sales to Minors: The sale of e-cigarettes to individuals under 20 years of age is prohibited in Thailand. Enforcing this regulation is crucial to restrict access for young people.
  2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Government-sponsored campaigns should educate youth about the risks associated with e-cigarette use and dispel misconceptions about their safety.
  3. Stricter Regulations: The government should consider stricter regulations on e-cigarette marketing, advertising, and flavors to reduce their appeal to youth.
  4. Research and Surveillance: Continuous research on the use and impact of e-cigarettes among Thai youth is essential to inform policy decisions and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

Conclusion: The rising prevalence of e-cigarette use among Thai youth is a cause for concern. Factors such as perceived harm reduction, flavor variety, peer pressure, marketing, and accessibility have contributed to this trend. To address this issue, the Thai government must take decisive actions, including stricter regulations, public awareness campaigns, and increased research efforts. Protecting the health of Thai youth and curbing the e-cigarette epidemic should be a top priority for policymakers, public health officials, and stakeholders alike.