Ljajević: The use of electronic cigarettes is associated with numerous health problems

The latest data from the Institute of Public Health of Montenegro shows that around 20 percent of sixteen-year-olds in Montenegro use electronic cigarettes daily, while just a few years ago that percentage was between two and four percent.

Of particular concern is the fact that as many as seven percent of children first tried an electronic cigarette before the age of 13, and that use is more common among girls than among boys.

Dr. Agima Ljajević, the national coordinator for tobacco control, said in "Colors of Morning" on Vijesti Television that this trend is the result of aggressive marketing by the tobacco industry, which presents electronic cigarettes as a "healthier" alternative to traditional smoking and as a means of quitting.

However, as Dr. Ljajević points out, electronic cigarettes are neither healthier nor do they help in quitting smoking.

"The use of electronic cigarettes is associated with numerous health problems, including lung damage, such as the so-called 'popcorn' lung caused by the presence of diacetyl, a substance that causes permanent changes in the airways and makes breathing difficult. Attention, learning and concentration disorders, especially in children and adolescents, because nicotine negatively affects brain development. Cardiovascular problems, increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and a higher risk of heart disease. Increased risk of cancer, especially of the bladder," Ljajević pointed out.