RESUMO
Introduction: Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)are used to smoke or ‘vape’, a flavoured solution containingnicotine, an addictive chemical found in cigarettes and tobaccoproducts. Contrary to popular belief that they are useful assmoking cessation tools, current data does not support thistheory. In fact, they cause various deleterious effects in bodyincluding death. Their use has seen exponential rise amongstyouth. We conducted a study in northern India to assess itsprevalent use and awareness amongst youth.Material and methods: A questionnaire with variousquestions related to ENDS was circulated amongst highersecondary schools and university students to ascertain theiruse and awareness amongst students regarding its usagepattern and health effects. After receiving first 200 confirmedresponses of use, the data was analysed.Results: First 200 confirmed users were obtained after 764responses. 82% were exposed to ENDS at an age of 15-20 years. 38% said vaping was ‘COOL’ and 32% started itbecause of nice flavours. 28% believed that ENDS are safeand 47% were either not sure or not aware. 41% were nowmore open to the idea of regular smoking.Conclusion: Nicotine is one of the most addictive drug andexposure of youth to ENDS predisposes them to nicotine atan early age. Understanding of the potential harmful effects ofENDS is not fully comprehended by them predisposing themto addiction. Therefore, the ban on ENDS by the governmentis justified.