| Nicotine Addiction |
Brain still developing → faster addiction and stronger cravings. |
Still addictive, but brains are fully developed. Dependence builds more gradually. |
| Brain & Cognitive Effects |
Disrupts memory, learning, attention, and impulse control. |
Linked to anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption. Long-term use may worsen mood disorders. |
| Lung Health |
Higher risk of asthma flare-ups, chronic bronchitis, and reduced lung growth. |
Increases risk of COPD, chronic cough, and long-term lung damage. |
| Heart & Circulation |
Nicotine raises blood pressure and heart rate, stressing a still-maturing cardiovascular system. |
Contributes to artery stiffness, endothelial damage, heart disease, and stroke. |
| Cancer Risk |
Early exposure → more years of potential DNA damage and carcinogen buildup. |
Carcinogens (formaldehyde, nitrosamines) still increase cancer risk with chronic use. |
| Peer & Social Influence |
Peer vaping doubles the risk of initiation; social media trends amplify curiosity. |
Less peer-driven, more stress-coping or smoking-alternative behavior. |
| Pregnancy Risks |
Nicotine harms fetal development → premature birth, low birth weight, learning problems. |
Same risks during pregnancy, plus long-term maternal health complications. |
| Mental Health |
Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and mood instability linked to nicotine exposure. |
Often used for stress relief but actually worsens stress/anxiety over time. |
