FADA presents study results on “Vaping” in Aruba
ORANJESTAD – On September 16, 2024, Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes and the Ministers of Justice, Tourism, and Education met with the Anti-Drug Foundation of Aruba (FADA).
FADA is a non-governmental organization that has been active for 40 years to inform and raise awareness among the people of Aruba and its youth about the problems caused by the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol.
During the meeting, FADA representatives expressed concerns about vaping in Aruba. It is currently a trend among both adults and youth, but more concerning is that children as young as seven are starting to vape. In Aruba, many people are unaware of the health risks associated with vaping, and this is the focus and goal of FADA: to raise awareness in the community.
Vaping is a modern alternative to cigarette use and appears to be safer because it doesn’t produce smoke like cigarettes. Additionally, users can change the flavor of their vape by using different aromas, which creates the perception that vaping is less harmful than cigarettes, which is not the case. Vaping causes primarily lung problems but can also lead to other serious health issues. Children who vape are more vulnerable to the damage from vaping, as their lungs are not fully developed or strong enough.
FADA is conducting awareness campaigns, but ultimately, parents are responsible for educating their children, especially minors, about the dangers of vaping, smoking, drugs, and alcohol.