Muscat – On a leisurely walk along the corniche or in the lanes of Ghubra and Shatti al Qurum, it has become increasingly common to see individuals, most the youth, blissfully vaping. Despite Oman’s stringent regulations against vaping, its allure has undeniably penetrated Omani society, prompting a serious debate over its health implications.

Expressing concern, Dr Jawad al Lawati, a senior consultant in public health focused on tobacco control, said, “There are no definitive studies delineating the health risks of vaping yet. However, its many pitfalls are apparent. Some vaping devices contain nicotine increasing risks of passive smoking and introducing children to the habit.”