Mexico City, October 15, 2024. In a joint effort to address the growing problem of electronic cigarette consumption among adolescents in Mexico, the School of Health Sciences of the Universidad Panamericanain collaboration with 16 high schools in Mexico City, has launched the project "VapeSmart: Make informed decisions. VapeSmart: Make informed decisions.
This ambitious study, led by Dr. Mariana Azcárraga Dr. Mariana Azcárragapsychiatrist and director of the University Center for Health and Wellness (CUSaB), aims not only to assess the prevalence of vaping among young people, but also to develop strategies for its prevention and treatment. develop strategies for its prevention and treatment.
Young researchers in action
The project involved about 40 teams of high school studentswho, under the supervision of experts from the School of Health Sciences, such as Dr. Antonio Villa, M.D., and Dr. Antonio Villa, Ph. Dr. Antonio Villa and Mariana VázquezMariana Vázquez, conducted research for six months.
These young researchers surveyed more than 2,000 peers to collect crucial data on e-cigarette use. Through extensive analysis, they developed innovative proposals to reduce the use of nicotine products in their educational settings.
Results and concrete proposals
In February of this year, the teams presented their final reports. Five projects stood out for their rigor and creativityand creativity, and were selected for a presentation before a specialized jury.
Among the most alarming results was the high prevalence of nicotine consumption among the students surveyed. Given this finding, the participants not only identified the risks associated with the use of these devices, but also proposed concrete measures to reduce their consumption in high schools.
A space for scientific development
The contest VapeSmart contest contest not only promoted awareness of the dangers of dangers of vapingbut also gave students the opportunity to get involved in scientific research.
These types of initiatives allow young people to develop fundamental skills for their future, such as critical thinking and data analysis, and strengthen their role as agents of change in society. critical thinking and data analysis, and strengthen their role as agents of change in society.
Commitment to public health
The relevance of this project lies in its ability to connect adolescents to crucial public health issues. By fostering a proactive approach to vaping prevention, the Universidad Panamericana and participating high schools are developing a new generation of leaders committed to the well-being of their communities.
As part of the process, the results of the competition were published, and the most outstanding students received awards for their dedication and contributions. In the words of Dr. Mariana Azcárraga, "It is essential that young people make informed decisions about their health. This project is a clear example of how they can actively contribute to the improvement of their environment"..
Initiatives such as these underscore the importance of research and education in the fight against contemporary health problems. With programs such as VapeSmartthe Universidad Panamericana continues to establish itself as a benchmark in the field of youth prevention and wellness.
Learn more about the Pan American School of Health Sciences at: https://www.up.edu.mx/educacion-universidad-facultad-de-ciencias-de-la-salud/
For more information about the myths and truths of vaping go to: https://blog.up.edu.mx/mitos-y-realidades-sobre-el-vapeo-y-la-marihuana
