Healthcare providers play crucial role in addressing vaping habits of young individuals

SHAH ALAM - To combat the growing issue of vaping among young individuals effectively, healthcare providers play a crucial role through essential involvement in prevention and intervention strategies.

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in addressing the vaping habits of young individuals, serving as the first line of defence against potential health risks.

With vaping becoming increasingly popular among the youth, medical professionals are uniquely in a position to educate, guide and support young people in making healthier choices.

Their involvement is essential in curbing the rise of vaping-related health issues and promoting overall well-being among the younger population.

Health expert Professor Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj firmly believed that healthcare providers played a crucial role in addressing the vaping habits of young patients.

"Our involvement is essential for both prevention and intervention strategies to combat this growing issue effectively.

"Firstly, education and awareness are key components in this approach. It is important to inform young patients about the risks associated with vaping, such as nicotine addiction, respiratory problems and cardiovascular issues.

"Dispelling myths that vaping is safer than smoking traditional cigarettes is also crucial to ensure patients have accurate information.

"Secondly, screening and assessment should be integrated into routine medical history assessments for all young patients.

"By routinely screening for vaping and tobacco use, we can better evaluate individual risk factors like family history of heart disease, respiratory conditions and other relevant health issues," he said.

Andrew also said counselling and support were vital aspects too.

He said using motivational interviewing techniques allowed for better understanding of why patients vape and their readiness to quit.

Providing behavioural interventions or referring patients to behavioural health services, he said could also help them develop effective strategies to quit vaping.

"Prevention strategies should include targeted education during routine visits, particularly focusing on adolescents and young adults who are more susceptible to peer pressure and marketing influences.

"Engaging with parents and caregivers is also crucial to educate them about the risks of vaping and encourage open discussions with their children," he said.

Andrew also said that follow-up and monitoring were essential for ongoing support.

He said scheduling regular follow-up visits would allow healthcare providers to monitor the patient’s progress in quitting vaping and provide continuous encouragement.

"We should also monitor for any signs of health issues related to vaping, such as respiratory problems or cardiovascular symptoms.

"For young patients considering vaping or currently vaping, it is important to highlight the immediate and long-term health risks.

"This includes explaining the addictive nature of nicotine and its potential impacts on brain development.

"Emphasising that vaping can serve as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes and other substances is also crucial," he said.

Andrew also urged healthcare providers to warn about the deceptive marketing tactics used by e-cigarette companies, which often target young people by portraying vaping as a harmless and trendy activity.

He said encouraging healthy alternatives to manage stress and peer pressure, such as physical activities, hobbies or mindfulness practices, can also support efforts to quit vaping.

"Providing information about resources for quitting, such as hotlines, support groups and mobile apps designed to help people quit vaping and smoking, is essential.

"Encouraging open discussions about peer pressure and suggesting building a support network of friends and family who do not vape can also empower young patients in their decision to avoid or quit vaping," he said.

In conclusion, Andrew said healthcare providers have a significant role in combating the rise of vaping among young people through education, screening, counselling and continuous support.

"By providing clear, evidence-based information about the risks of vaping and offering resources and strategies for quitting, we can help young patients make informed decisions and support them in leading healthier lives.

"It is crucial to create an open and non-judgmental environment where young patients feel comfortable discussing their vaping habits and seeking help. This approach will contribute to a healthier future for our young patients," he said.