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Cape Town, South Africa – Health professionals in the Western Cape are raising serious concerns about a disturbing new trend: “smart vapes.” These devices, cleverly disguised as e-cigarettes, incorporate addictive gaming features like Pac-Man and Tetris, specifically targeting children and teenagers.

The Partnership for Community Wellness, alongside other leading prevention specialists, is sounding the alarm about this innovative, yet deeply concerning, approach to vaping. These aren't just simple e-cigarettes; they're designed to be engaging, interactive, and highly appealing to a younger demographic, potentially leading to nicotine addiction and long-term health consequences.

The integration of games within these devices is a deliberate strategy to increase usage and prolong engagement. The novelty factor and the competitive nature of games can be incredibly enticing for young people, making it more likely they'll become regular users and, ultimately, dependent on nicotine. This is particularly worrying given the known risks associated with vaping, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and potential cognitive impairment.

“We’re seeing a concerning escalation in the marketing tactics used to target young people,” explains Nancy Hans, a prevention specialist with the Partnership for Community Wellness. “These ‘smart vapes’ are not just about vaping; they’re about creating a habit, a dependency, by layering in the addictive elements of gaming. It’s a very sophisticated and dangerous strategy.”

Parents and educators need to be aware of the existence of these devices and the potential risks they pose. It's crucial to have open and honest conversations with children and teenagers about the dangers of vaping, regardless of how appealing the device may seem.

Key warning signs to look out for include:

• Increased secrecy and isolation
• Sudden interest in gaming or technology
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Unexplained cough or respiratory symptoms

The rise of smart vapes underscores the need for stricter regulations on the marketing and sale of vaping products, particularly those targeting young people. Advocates are calling for increased public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and potentially even bans on devices with gaming features. Prevention efforts must focus on educating young people about the risks of vaping and providing them with the tools and resources they need to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions.

The Partnership for Community Wellness urges all stakeholders – parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and policymakers – to work together to address this growing threat and protect the health and well-being of South Africa's youth. It's a challenge that requires a coordinated and proactive approach to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.