New Smart Vapes With Games Built In Being Targeted at Teens
Sep 24, 2024
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In the past years, people have witnessed the rise of the vaping industry. Recently, there’s a particular trend emerging — a vape with games, like Pacman and Tetris. The release of so-called smart vapes is made to appeal to young consumers, particularly those who aren’t allowed to purchase such devices. Explore more about this rising trend, its dangers and how you can help protect your teen from its potential dangers.
What Is a Vape?
A vape is a small, handheld device that emits a mist of nicotine and flavoring. It’s dubbed an alternative to smoking a cigarette, as it warms particles out of a liquid rather than using tobacco. When you vape, an aerosol is released, and you breathe it into your mouth, where it goes down your throat and lungs.
Also known as e-cigarettes, the most common parts include:
- Cartridge
- The heating element that turns liquid into breathable particles
- Battery to enable the device’s heating element
- Power or control buttons, some of which are activated by sensors when inhalation is detected
- Mouthpiece
What’s With Vape With Games?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it’s illegal to sell any tobacco product, including vapes, to anyone under 21 years old. This law has been implemented due to the drastic increase in teens using e-cigarette products.
However, despite the government’s efforts to decrease vaping among youth, so-called “smart vapes” are being released to attract teens. A new vape with games is being illegally sold in many parts of the country.
These video game vapes come in quirky names like “cherry pop” to appeal to the youth. They have built-in screens preloaded with classic games. An e-cigarette can quickly turn into a Tamagotchi vape, Pacman vape and Tetris vape. Aside from offering games, these devices also provide digital prizes depending on how much you vape.
Critics are cautioning the public that these smart vapes with games are being used to lure teenagers into nicotine addiction. Alison Ritchie, the president of the New York Association of Convenience Stores, says candy flavors mixed with “Candy Crush-type” video games is a recipe to get the youth hooked on nicotine.
Despite being banned in the U.S., video game vapes can be bought by anyone via the Internet. The California Department of Public Health found that 21.6% of 31,000 high school students tried a tobacco product and 7.3% currently use tobacco. The most used product was vapes, which are obtained through the internet or from someone else.
Craftbox V-Play
The vapes with games are being sold as disposable nicotine-loaded devices. Also known as Craftbox V-Play, this device offers 20,000 puffs of flavored nicotine. It offers many flavors and built-in retro gaming features, including Jet Fighter, Pacman and Tetris.
The inclusion of games can make vaping more fun, especially for young people drawn to interactive, entertaining experiences. These games can positively affect children’s cognitive development and even ease ADHD symptoms. Despite their positive effects, the fact remains that they exist in vapes, which are illegal devices for teens to use.
Why Do Teens Vape?
Many factors can trigger a child to try vaping, despite its well-known negative health effects. Here are some of the reasons why teens vape:
- Childhood experiences: Teenagers who experienced traumatic childhood events are more likely to use e-cigarettes.
- Mental health issues: Some teens resort to vaping to cope with stress, depression and anxiety. Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental health issue.
- Peer pressure: Vaping can spark social acceptance among peers. The use of vapes may also be attributed to your teen’s social media exposure, where these devices are more accessible than ever. Moreover, vaping is often promoted on social media by peers and influencers, which may trigger a teen’s curiosity.
What Teens Should Know About Vaping
Research studies about vaping are still ongoing. Since not much is known about the health effects of using e-cigarettes, one thing’s for sure — nicotine addiction is detrimental to the developing brain and body of an adolescent.
According to Dr. Faisal Khan, medical director of Interventional Pulmonology and Endoscopy at Franciscan Health Indianapolis, the brain takes shape until a person reaches their early 20s. Nicotine exposure can alter the chemistry of a developing brain.
When you think about it, there’s not much difference between vaping and smoking. A vape pen can alter your state of mind enough to increase your risk of heart-related issues, mental health concerns and social isolation.
Healthier Alternatives to Using Vapes With Games
Whether you’re a parent or a teen looking to change vaping habits, it can be easy to dwell on the possible effects of nicotine withdrawal. It can be uncomfortable initially, but there are ways to make the transition easier. Do these things instead of vaping.
1. Play Board Games
Board games are an excellent indoor hobby that can help curb nicotine cravings. Men usually have an intense craving for competition in everything they do, even if it’s as trivial as Monopoly. These games help keep the competitive fire alive and help teens improve their cognitive skills.
Some board game ideas for teens include Race for the Galaxy, Aton, Power Grid, Ticket to Ride, Herd Mentality and Flamecraft.
2. Ride a Bike
Encourage your teen to ride a bike with you or their peers to help them develop a new hobby. Cycling is fun, competitive and a sustainable means of transportation. This physical activity also helps improve their overall health and empowers them to explore the world.
Remember to pick a bike that suits your teen’s needs well. Many states also require cyclists to wear a helmet at all times. Many bike accidents involve head injuries — a crash could lead to brain-damaging consequences afterward. Pick fluorescent and bright colors to make your teen more visible to drivers on the road.
3. Exercise
Replace vaping with something equally as addictive. Physical exercise is a necessity, but it can be a life-changer for teens struggling with vaping or mental health issues. Invite your teen to spend at least two to three times a week to reap the benefits of staying active.
Vapes With Games: How to Protect Teens?
These smart vapes are a significant public health concern. As these devices become more appealing to the youth, the government needs to implement more robust regulations to prevent minors from health risks. Additionally, you can also help protect your teen by introducing healthier alternatives to vaping.
