A recent study by Oxford University reveals the prevalence of advertising and sales of vaping products on , a popular video-sharing platform among teenagers. The study highlights concerns regarding the exposure of adolescents to these products and the potential risks associated with their use. How TikTok is Being Used for Advertising and Selling Vaping Products Despite a decline in smoking rates in the U.
S., there is growing apprehension among public health experts regarding the rising use of electronic cigarettes by young individuals. In 2023, approximately 17% of middle school and high school students reported using e-cigarettes, raising concerns about nicotine addiction and the possibility of transitioning to combustible cigarettes.
The study aims to explore the role of social media, particularly TikTok, in the promotion and distribution of e-cigarettes. With a significant portion of teenagers engaging with TikTok, researchers sought to analyze the content related to the sale and marketing of vaping products on the platform. Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of 475 English language TikTok videos posted between July 1, 2022, and August 31, 2023.
Using hashtags such as #puffbarss, #geekbar, and #elfbar associated with e-cigarettes, the study identified various strategies used to promote these products. Notably, hashtags like #puffbundles were utilized to conceal vaping products by packaging them with items like lip gloss and candy. The findings of the study reve.
