Vaping Cessation

What is Vaping?

Vaping refers to the inhalation of vapour produced by electronic devices known as e-cigarettes, vapes, or Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). These devices heat a liquid (which often contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals), into an aerosol (a fine mist of vapour) which will be inhaled by the user.

Legal Status of Vaping in Singapore

Vaping is illegal in Singapore. It is against the law to possess, purchase, use, import, or sell e-cigarettes and related products. Offenders can face fines, rehabilitation or prosecution.

What is in a Vape?

Vape liquids (also called e-liquids) often contain a mix of substances, many of which can be harmful:

• Nicotine – this is a highly addictive substance that can affect the heart, brain, and your mood.
• Propylene Glycol & Vegetable Glycerin – these are substances which can be safe in foods but may irritate the airways when inhaled.
• Flavourings – while these ingredients may be safe to eat, heating and inhaling them can harm the lungs.
• Toxic Chemicals – substances like benzene, formaldehyde, and diacetyl, are linked to lung damage and cancer.
• Metals & Particulate Matter – lead, tin, and nickel can accumulate in the blood and can damage the lungs.  

Who is at risk of vaping? 

• Youth & Young Adults – are often attracted by trendy and pleasant flavours of the vape liquid, social media influence, and the incorrect belief that vaping is safer than smoking.
• Non-smokers or Experimenters – may try vaping out of curiosity or peer pressure.
• Individuals under stress – some turn to vaping to cope with anxiety or emotional struggles which may worsen mental health over time and lead to dependence (habit forming behaviour). 

Health risks of vaping 

• Addiction – The user may get addicted to nicotine in vapes, making it difficult to quit.
• Lung problems – This may include a constant cough that does not go away, airway inflammation (swelling) and shortness of breath. The chemicals in the vape liquid are toxic and may increase the risk of lung injuries.
• Heart Problems –The user may experience an increase in heart rate, an increase risk of hypertension (high blood pressure), 'stiffening' of the arteries, and increased risk of heart disease.  
• Cancer Risk – The user may have an increased risk of cancers due to the harmful substances and chemicals in vapes.
• Mental Effects – Exposure to vaping can affect one's attention, memory and mood. Nicotine in vape liquid may disrupt brain chemistry, which is crucial in regulating one's mood and mental well-being. The youth are particularly vulnerable, with an increase risk of mood and anxiety disorders. There is evidence of an increase risk in suicidality (thoughts of ending one's life) with vape use. 

Support in Singapore: How to Quit 

If you or someone you know is vaping, support is available: 

1. Public Campaigns – Campaigns that are organised by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) highlight the dangers and health impacts of vaping and help encourage a nicotine-free lifestyle. An example of such a campaign is the I Quit programme that the HPB offers to help individuals quit vaping.
2. National online resources - Online websites such as Stop Vaping from Gov.Sg are available which provides information on the QuitVape programme, and enforces against vaping and the use of Etomidate containing e-vaporizers. The article on Etomidate-laced Vaping by the National Addictions Management Service is available for access to find out more about etomidate, signs of etomidate intoxication, when to seek help for family members who are using the Kpod etc.
3. I Quit Programme – This programme is a national initiative where counselling services are available to help you on your journey in quitting vaping or smoking. A pharmacist or certified counsellor can work with you to draw up a suitable quit plan. A SMS support service is also available where advice and reminders are sent to motivate and encourage you along your quit journey.
4. QuitLine (1800-438-2000) – A free helpline is available which offers professional support and advice to help you with your quit journey.
5. School & Community Outreaches – Healthcare institutions work together with schools to create workshops that help to raise awareness of the health impacts of vaping, especially among the youth.
6. Community & Peer Support – Support groups such as the We Care community services are available to provide support through sharing of stories, tips, and encouragement.

Ready to take the first step?

Quitting is not easy, but you don't have to do it alone. 

Here's how to begin: You’re not alone in this. 

• Call the QuitLine: 1800-438-2000 for confidential advice.
• Sign up for the I Quit Programme to get a personalised quit plan.
• Identify your triggers, make a plan, and set a quit date.
• Visit your local pharmacy and ask about the Start to S.T.O.P. smoking cessation programme.
• Join a support group to get motivation and encouragement. Our government website Stop Vaping provides information on agencies such as the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (SANA) and support groups such as We Care Community Services to help you along your quit journey.