The Consell de Formentera has sounded the alarm after detecting a worrying increase in the consumption of energy drinks and vapes among pre-teens and teenagers on the island. As reported by the Advisory and Guidance Service on Substances and Screens (SAOSP), this trend poses a significant risk to the health of young people, so new information activities have been launched to prevent this problem.
A campaign to educate and prevent
The island administration has designed two infographics that will be distributed through social networks and communication applications used by educational centers. These tools seek to provide families with clear information on the dangers of these products, highlighting their possible adverse health effects. These measures are part of the Island Plan on the use of substances, screens and games on the island of Formentera 2022-2025, a program that aims to address the challenges related to the consumption of harmful substances and addiction to new technologies.
The risks of energy drinks and vapes
In the case of energy drinks, the infographics warn about their high content of sugars, caffeine and other components such as taurine, ginseng and guarana, which could cause negative health effects, especially in young people.
On the other hand, regarding vapers, the Consell points out that these devices may contain nicotine, glycerin and propylene glycol, among other carcinogenic substances. In addition, their consumption is linked to serious conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory irritations and even the so-called “vapers’ disease” (EVALI). The institution also recalled that the sale of electronic cigarettes, with or without nicotine, is forbidden to minors under 18 years of age, a regulation that seeks to protect young people from their harmful effects.
A call for family involvement
The Consell has stressed the importance of the collaboration of families to prevent these risky behaviors. The campaign not only seeks to educate young people, but also to provide parents with tools to identify and address potential problems related to these trends. “It is crucial that families are informed and are an active support in the prevention of these consumptions,” stressed the Social Welfare area of the Consell, which will continue to develop actions within the framework of the island plan.
