Researchers are raising concerns about a new trend in vaping devices that incorporate built-in gaming systems. These devices, which target younger consumers, combine nicotine addiction with gaming disorder, posing significant health risks. The integration of games into vapes has added a new layer of worry for public health officials and researchers.

Vaping Devices with Built-in Games

One prominent example of these vape-gaming devices is the Big D Vapor “Craftbox V-Play 20K Disposable Vape with Built-in Gaming System.” Priced between $18 to $30, this device claims to offer the “ultimate vaping experience” and includes a “Vapentertainment system” with three retro games.

Research Findings

A study published in the Tobacco Control journal by scientists at the University of California, Riverside highlights the risks associated with these gaming vapes:

• Youth Attraction: The user-friendly and attractive design of these devices targets young consumers, potentially coupling nicotine addiction with gaming disorder.
• Prevalence: E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students in the U.S., with nearly 5% of middle schoolers and 10% of high schoolers using them as of 2023.

Health Risks

Vapes containing nicotine are highly addictive and pose significant health risks, especially for pregnant people and youth. According to the CDC:

• Addiction: Nicotine is extremely addictive, and its use during adolescence can harm brain development.
• Harmful Substances: Aerosols from e-cigarettes contain potentially dangerous chemicals, including carcinogens.

Innovations in Vape Technology

The market for electronic cigarettes has seen rapid innovation, making these devices increasingly elaborate and complicated:

• Animations and Bluetooth: Some vapes feature animations that change as users puff or have built-in Bluetooth capabilities, allowing customisation with personal photos.
• Celebrity Endorsements: Certain devices come with celebrity endorsements and offer promotional trading cards.
• Gaming Features: Games on these devices may require vaping to progress, such as feeding a virtual pet with coins earned by vaping or counting puffs to participate in leaderboards.

Concerns and Calls for Regulation

Researchers like Man Wong and Professor Prue Talbot from UC Riverside emphasise the need for closer monitoring and regulation of these devices:

• Combined Addictions: By combining elements like nicotine, gaming, and screen time, these devices exploit multiple potential addictions simultaneously.
• Environmental Impact: Increased use of these devices also contributes to more waste.
• Regulatory Needs: The researchers hope their findings will prompt the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to impose stricter regulations on these products.

The integration of gaming into vaping devices raises significant public health concerns, particularly for young users. The combination of nicotine addiction and gaming disorder can have devastating effects, necessitating immediate attention and regulation.

Source: Audacy