Chile reports rise in adolescent vaping and childhood poisonings

A national survey conducted by Chile's Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization reveals that one in three Chilean adolescents aged 13 to 15 has tried a vaporizer. The study, which included over 7,000 students across 16 regions, found that 14.8% of these adolescents used nicotine-containing vapes within the last month.

Medical experts, including the executive director of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile's Toxicological Information Center (CITUC), warn that these devices are often perceived as harmless accessories due to sweet flavors and colorful designs. However, they contain highly addictive nicotine, solvents that can damage the developing brain, and heavy metals.

In addition to rising adolescent use, there has been a 400% increase in childhood poisonings related to e-cigarettes and vapes over the last five months. CITUC reports that even small amounts of the liquid can cause severe intoxication, leading to hospitalizations in intensive care units, particularly among infants and children under two years old.