Electronic cigarettes as a blow to health
Örken East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Education Development of Education Administration of East Kazakhstan region hosted an educational lesson in an interview format on the topic: “Electronic cigarettes as a blow to health.”
The event was organized by the Örken Center, jointly with the invited speaker - Armangul M. Jembayeva, an expert of Shygys Preventive Medicine Center, who has extensive experience in preventive and health education among adolescents.
The key goal of the lesson was to foster students’ conscious attitude to their health, prevent bad habits and debunk myths about the alleged harmlessness of electronic cigarettes.
The discussion took place in an open and engaging format. The moderator asked questions, and Armangul M. Jembayeva clearly explained the dangers of vaping and e-cigarette use.
The speaker stressed that modern marketing strategies create a false sense of safety among teenagers: bright design, pleasant flavors and advertising by famous bloggers contribute to modern trends for vapes. However, this hides serious health risks.
According to the expert, e-cigarette vapors contain glycerin, formaldehyde and thousands of other chemical compounds that release toxic substances when heated. These harm the respiratory, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems, causing irritability, drowsiness, and decreased attention concentration. Vaping is particularly dangerous for adolescents aged 12–13, as their bodies are still developing, and the harmful effects of substances during this period can lead to long-term addiction.
Armangul M. Jembayeva dispelled the myth of “nicotine-free vapes”, emphasizing that such products still contain harmful substances. She also drew attention to hygiene risks: teenagers often share devices with each other, which can become a source of infections and inflammations.
According to statistical data provided by the expert, up to 70% of the surveyed teenagers in Kazakhstan mistakenly believe that vapes are a safe alternative to cigarettes. This is an alarming indicator that requires continuous health education efforts.
The speaker informed participants of the possibilities of Youth Health Centers operating at polyclinics, where students can get free, confidential consultations with a psychologists and doctors. The speaker highlighted that such events help teenagers think about the consequences of their actions and make an informed choice in favor of a healthy lifestyle.
Following the meeting, the moderator emphasized that trends in harmful habits are temporary, while health and resilience are the foundation of a successful future.
The interview lesson proved to be not only informative, but also profoundly educational, inspiring students to make healthy lifestyle choices.