WILLEMSTAD - The Fundashon pa Maneho di Adikshon (FMA), the foundation for addiction management in Curaçao, expresses concern about the growing popularity of vape pens among young people. These electronic cigarettes, initially designed as smoking cessation aids, have become a new source of addiction, warns psychologist Betrian from FMA.
During a meeting of the Parliament's central committee, Betrian explained that there are different generations of these devices. The first generation mimicked traditional cigarettes, followed by e-cigarettes and later the vape.
These early versions were costly to use, but the fourth generation, the vape pod, is much more user-friendly. "The vape pen is easy to use; you buy it, inhale, and the device activates itself," explains Betrian. These pens are widely available.
There are various types of vape pens, ranging in the number of puffs – from 200 to 6,000. Betrian indicates that a vape pen with 200-400 puffs is roughly equivalent to a pack of cigarettes.
"Normally, such a pen would last a week, but because it's so easy to carry, it can be used up in two to three days," says Betrian. The attractive flavors and visible vapor emitted by the device, despite uncertainty about its contents, make it particularly appealing.
In the United States, it is mandatory to place a warning label on the packaging due to the presence of nicotine, an addictive substance. However, Betrian emphasizes that there are also vape pens without nicotine. Nevertheless, warnings often prove ineffective.
FMA is particularly concerned about the use of vape pens among youth. "Although few young people with a vape addiction seek help from the FMA, the use among this group is very popular," says Betrian. Therefore, FMA focuses on awareness campaigns in neighborhoods and schools to educate young people about the dangers of vape pens.