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Some parents may see a pen-like object and assume it’s a school item, yet it could be a vape device (Photo: Gemini)
World No Tobacco Day 2026 is sounding a fresh alarm on a growing danger quietly finding its way into school bags, bedrooms and even teenage social spaces. What once looked like a traditional cigarette problem has now evolved into sleek gadgets, sweet flavours and colourful packaging designed to appear harmless.
From vape pens that resemble USB drives to nicotine devices disguised as highlighters and ordinary pens, health experts warn that the tobacco industry is reinventing itself to attract a younger generation.
Dr Paul Masinde says the tobacco and nicotine industry is increasingly targeting young people through synthetic nicotine, nicotine salts and flavoured products designed to make vaping more addictive and appealing. He says these products are widely promoted on social media, entertainment platforms, and through influencers, creating the false impression that vaping is fashionable, harmless, and modern.
