Thailand's Smoking Dads: A Growing Risk for Youth Amid Vaping Rise

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Nearly 40% of fathers in Thailand smoke, affecting their children's health as vaping becomes more popular among youth. A recent survey of 1,159 fathers and other male caregivers of children up to six years old showed that 39.8% are smokers, according to Assistant Professor Wasin Siwaasarit from Thammasat University. Of these smokers, 77.22% primarily use cigarettes, 12.36% vape, and the rest do both.

 

Around 20% of the men quit smoking after learning they would become fathers. Still, despite knowing the dangers to their children, 77.87% struggle to quit. They also lack understanding of the health risks of vaping, said Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation.

 

 

"Vapes are causing problems in Thai society,” Dr. Pongthep added, noting vape juices contain harmful metals and over 16,000 artificial flavorings, which can inflame respiratory tissue and blood vessels. The survey highlights the need for better awareness and education on the risks of smoking and vaping, especially for those influencing children’s lives.

 

-- 2024-12-04

 

 

[dinsdale]

So 39.8% of those surveyed are smokers and of these 77.22% smoke cigarettes and 12.36% of the 39.8% vape yet the focus is on vaping. This is what I would call agenda driven.