The Health Department has issued a stark warning urging parents to be vigilant about the use of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, which come in various fruity flavors designed to appeal to youth.

According to the National Board on Dangerous Drugs, the sale of e-cigarettes to school children is strictly prohibited due to their high nicotine content, an addictive substance. These products are easily accessible online and through various channels, posing severe risks to the health of young users.

The alarming rise in e-cigarette use among school children and young adults has prompted concerns, with health experts warning of potential lung and brain damage from the chemicals present in these devices.

In a recent operation, Excise officers apprehended an individual in the Peliyagoda area with a substantial stock of e-cigarettes valued at 3 million rupees. Among the seized items were e-cigarettes cleverly disguised as smartwatches, highlighting the deceptive methods used in their distribution.

Investigations revealed that the suspect had been actively involved in online smuggling of these products, exploiting the popularity of e-cigarettes among the youth.

Excise officials disclosed that a single e-cigarette can contain the equivalent nicotine content of 50,000 to 60,000 regular cigarettes, highlighting the severity of the health risks associated with their use.

Globally, many countries have banned the sale and use of e-cigarettes due to their harmful effects on the body. Sri Lankan authorities are urging stringent measures to curb the spread of these dangerous products, emphasizing the need for public awareness and preventive action to safeguard the well-being of the younger generation.