According to a report from Thai media outlet Siamrath on November 6, the data released by the Thai National Statistical Office indicates a continuous increase in the number of e-cigarette users among the youth population in Thailand.
In 2021, the number of e-cigarette users in Thailand reached 78,742, comprising 71,486 males and 7,256 females. Among them, the age group of 15-24 accounted for 24,050 users.
A joint investigation conducted by the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Education, and the World Health Organization has revealed an upward trend in e-cigarette usage among Thai adolescents. Among students aged 13-15, the usage rate has risen from 3.3% in 2015 to 8.1% in 2021.
Dr. Weerawut Imsamran, Deputy Director General of Thailand’s Department of Medical Services, has revealed that e-cigarettes contain highly addictive nicotine and pose serious health risks. The use of e-cigarettes among adolescents, whose brains are still developing, may have negative impacts on their health and memory. Additionally, the use of e-cigarettes by pregnant women may potentially have adverse effects on the brain development of the unborn fetus.
In light of this, he urges parents, teachers, and schools to remain vigilant and prevent children from accessing e-cigarettes.
