“This is a significant issue concerning smoking among younger age groups, including those aged 13 to 15. Current figures for Albania are similar to those of European Union countries, standing at around 11% for both boys and girls. Since this is a major problem, the World Health Organization is calling for stricter controls on the sale of these products to younger age groups. The state must be more vigilant, particularly through inspection authorities, to prevent the sale of tobacco products to individuals under 18 years of age,” said expert Roland Shuperka.

Shuperka explained that nicotine products are less harmful than traditional tobacco products, but they should by no means be used by adolescents.

“These products were not designed for this age group. They were designed for adults, particularly for those who want to quit smoking but have not been successful or do not have the ability to stop. In such cases, a less harmful product is recommended. These alternative products aim to reduce illness and mortality rates. We should not forget that in Albania, among ten patients diagnosed with lung cancer, nine are smokers of combustible tobacco,” the expert added.

Health experts are urging schools and families to work together in preventing adolescents from using tobacco products and their alternatives.