Singapore has made significant progress in reducing smoking rates, but the rise of vaping has amplified nicotine dependence and other toxins among youth substantially. As vaping devices are heavily promoted through digital channels, purchased via encrypted messaging platforms and socially normalised, more young people are being exposed to risk of vaping addiction at an early age.
Youth vaping presents a growing challenge for families, schools and policymakers alike, raising concerns about nicotine dependence, social influences, enforcement effectiveness and the emergence of a new generation of nicotine users. While strong regulatory action remains essential, there is increasing recognition that addressing youth addiction requires more than deterrence alone. Families will need the confidence to seek help early without fearing consequences, public health strategies can balance enforcement with support, rehabilitation and prevention.
Hear from Dean, Prof Teo Yik Ying as he examines how Singapore’s evolving approach to vaping and how families, communities and policymakers can play a part in early interventions.
Read the commentary here