Guyanese welcome vaping restrictions, citing health risks to young people

Guyanese continue to welcome the government’s decision to restrict vaping products, citing the need to discourage the practice, as they believe it could have dangerous and lasting harmful consequences.

During interviews conducted by the Department of Public Information (DPI) along Main Street Avenue on Thursday, several people expressed support for President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s announced move, noting the importance of protecting children and promoting healthier lifestyles.

Many Guyanese, such as Ramona Mackenzie, told DPI that they believe the restrictions were necessary, particularly as they continue to see young people using vaping products.

“I do support the initiative because I think it’s a good initiative. I think it’s dangerous, especially for schoolchildren, because I’ve seen a lot of them passing here with it (vaping product). I know it’s not good for them, so I support it 100 per cent,” Mackenzie said.

Shacquan Adams also welcomed the restrictions, pointing to the potential dangers vaping poses to the human body.

Adams said young people should be discouraged from using the product, noting that the effects may not be immediately visible but could have serious consequences over time.

Educator Florence Olatunji said the initiative was important because some young people mistakenly believe vaping is harmless compared with traditional smoking products.

“Definitely. I think that’s a very good initiative, because a lot of our young people have this misconception that vaping is okay because they’re not seeing the actual smoke…It is even worse than actual smoking,” Olatunji said.

She explained that comprehensive sexuality education in schools includes guidance to help young people understand health risks and make informed decisions.

Meanwhile, Luis Santiago also supported the government’s decision, warning that the consequences of vaping could affect one’s long-term well-being.

“While it might look nice, in the long run, it is something that will affect your health, especially your lungs, and it can cause cancer,” Santiago said.

“The main goal is for us to live and enjoy life with our family,” Santiago added, describing the initiative as a positive step by the government.

Meanwhile, Ezeikle Scott added that young people should not view vaping as fashionable or harmless.

“I support the initiative of vaping being banned by the government. I know the risks and the dangers of it. A lot of young people are using it and thinking it’s cool, but it is very dangerous,” Scott said.

Others also raised concerns about the wider effects of smoking and vaping, including the importance of maintaining a healthy environment and protecting members of the public from exposure to smoke in shared spaces.

Kamala Chetram, who has a 16-year-old son, said she strongly supports the restrictions because of concerns about the chemicals contained in vaping products and their potential effects on the body.

The public response comes as the government moves to address concerns about vaping, particularly among young people, and reinforce the importance of protecting their health and wellbeing.

The restrictions are intended to curb the use of vaping products. Additionally, residents’ concerns underscore the need for continued public education about the potential health risks and the importance of making informed choices.

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