Flavored Vapes and Youth Targeting: An Influence on Adolescent Lives

Abstract

The rise of flavored e-cigarette use among adolescents has emerged as a pressing public health concern, primarily driven by targeted marketing, appealing flavor varieties, and social normalization. Initially introduced as a harm-reduction tool for adult smokers, e-cigarettes have rapidly infiltrated youth culture, with flavors like fruit, candy, and menthol masking harmful nicotine content and reinforcing misconceptions about safety. This narrative review synthesizes current literature on how flavored vapes attract adolescent users, the neurological and respiratory risks associated with early nicotine exposure, and the role of social and peer influences in vaping initiation. Data shows that adolescents are more likely to try flavored products, view them as less harmful, and develop long-term use habits. Furthermore, nicotine and flavor additives have been linked to cognitive deficits and brain inflammation during critical developmental stages. Despite some progress in regulation, gaps in policy enforcement and online accessibility continue to fuel underage access. This review calls for comprehensive policy reform, increased educational outreach, and youth-centered cessation strategies to combat the vaping epidemic and protect developing adolescent brains.