UMECIT promotes healthy habits for the community: DurIn recent years, the use of electronic cigarettes or vapes has increased significantly among teenagers and young adults. Their modern design, appealing flavors, and the perception that they are "less harmful" than traditional cigarettes have led many people to use them without truly understanding the risks.

In Panama, the Ministry of Health (MINSA), together with the National Commission for the Study and Prevention of Drug-Related Crimes (CONAPRED), has strengthened measures to protect the health of the population, especially children, adolescents and young people, by restricting the sale and use of electronic cigarettes in minors and regulating their consumption.

Why do vapes pose a risk?

Although many people believe that vapor is simply "water," the reality is different. Electronic cigarettes generate an aerosol that can contain nicotine, heavy metals, chemical compounds, and other substances potentially harmful to the body.

Several studies have shown that vaping can:

• Developing dependence due to nicotine.
• Affecting brain development in young people.
• To irritate and inflame the respiratory tract.
• Decrease lung capacity.
• Increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
• Exposing the body to substances whose long-term impact is still being studied.

Flavor doesn't mean safety

Fruits, candies, mint, energy drinks or desserts.

The flavors make these devices seem harmless, but they don't eliminate the risks associated with their chemical components. Their attractive packaging has been one of the factors that has most contributed to their popularity among young people.

Making a smart decision also means taking care of your future.

University life involves making decisions that will impact your professional and personal future. Choosing not to vape means taking care of your physical health, concentration, academic performance, and emotional well-being.

Every decision counts when it comes to building a healthy life project.

UMECIT promotes a culture of prevention

As an institution committed to the comprehensive education of its students, UMECIT supports national prevention initiatives led by the Ministry of Health and CONAPRED to reduce the consumption of vaping products and promote healthy lifestyles.

Getting informed is the first step towards making responsible decisions.

Because taking care of your health is also part of your professional training.