The HSE has recently launched a new public vaping prevention campaign. Vaping (e-cigarettes) and nicotine pouches (snus) are a relatively new health risk. While most young people don’t vape or use nicotine pouches, the use of these products among young people is increasing and is a public health concern for the HSE. A recent study of 15 and 16 year olds found:
- 1 in 3 had tried vapes
- 1 in 6 were current users of vapes
- 1 in 13 had tried nicotine pouches (snus).
There are several harms the HSE is concerned about in this context:
- Addiction and dependence: The nicotine in vapes (e-cigarettes) and nicotine pouches (snus) is highly addictive and can be in very high doses.
- Impact on the brain and emotional wellbeing: Developing brains are more vulnerable to the effects of nicotine. This can cause problems with attention and learning, mood disorders, sleep issues, anxiety and depression. It can also lead to young people becoming more impulsive.
- Exposure to other drugs: Some vapes (e-cigarettes) can contain alcohol or synthetic cannabinoids. These were banned in July 2025.
- Heart and lung damage: Early research shows vaping can damage the heart and cause asthma attacks and lung injuries.
- Injuries: Vaping has been linked to injuries and health problems like poisonings, burns from batteries and fractures, but these are less common.
- Cigarette or tobacco smoking: Young people who vape are more likely to start smoking tobacco and cigarettes.
There is also extensive marketing and promotion of vapes (e-cigarettes) and nicotine pouches (snus). New products like disposable vapes and use of synthetic nicotine salts may be making it easier for children to get addicted to nicotine.
The new campaign’s content covers a range of important topics, including the different types of smokeless tobacco products, the associated health risks, and the concerning rise in vaping among young people in Ireland. The public campaign ads are targeted at parents, teachers and anyone who wants more information about youth vaping and other nicotine products. A letter has also been sent to all primary and post primary schools for parents, highlighting the above concerns and signposting to the new resources and information on the HSE website.
For more information and to access the resources, go to www.healthpromotion.ie and https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/vaping/.