Sculpture 'Vape Brain' Raises Awareness of Dangers for Teens

A unique sculpture depicting a human brain, crafted entirely from boxes of confiscated illegal vapes, is visiting schools across Hertfordshire to raise awareness about nicotine addiction and its impact on mental health. The piece was designed by students from the 3D design course at Hertford Regional College in Ware, who highlighted that vape companies often target young people with attractive flavors and packaging.

This year, Hertfordshire trading standards officers have seized approximately 28,000 illegal vapes, which may contain unknown and potentially harmful substances. Reports from ASH (Action on Smoking and Health) indicate that vaping among 11 to 17-year-olds has nearly doubled since 2019.

Milena Melnychenko, a 19-year-old 3D design student, conceived the idea of representing brain slices in different colors to illustrate the effects of vaping on various brain regions. She explained that vaping can contribute to stress and depression and noted that social media marketing encourages teenagers to bypass age restrictions, often using fake IDs to purchase vapes. Selling vapes to anyone under 18 is illegal.

"Young people are deceived by fun and colorful packaging, unaware of how addictive and harmful these products can be," said Milena, who shared that her research convinced a friend to quit vaping.

Authorities are planning stricter regulations for the packaging and display of vapes in stores, as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, making it illegal to sell nicotine products to under-18s.

Seventeen-year-old Jie commented on peer pressure among younger students: "Many Year 7 and 8 children vape outside school to look older and cooler, not realizing the damage to their lungs." Another student, Roxana Acodrinesei, 19, revealed she had used vapes to cope with stress and was drawn in by colorful packaging. After conducting research, she quit, noting the risks to concentration, heart, and lung health.

Dr. Allison Wren from Hertfordshire County Council highlighted that some teenagers believe vaping reduces stress, but nicotine dependency can actually worsen anxiety and other mental health issues. Roxana hopes the sculpture will educate students on long-term consequences.

Seventeen-year-old Lewis hopes the sculpture will alert younger students: "Seeing the before-and-after effects on someone who vapes was shocking. People become anxious and restless without it. If more students understood the mental health impact, they might think twice."

According to the Office for National Statistics, 6.7% of people aged 16 and older in Britain use a vape daily, up from 5.9% in 2023, while another 3.3% vape occasionally. Usage remains highest among 16 to 24-year-olds at 13% in 2024, down from 15.8% in 2023.

The sculpture, featuring quotes from Hertford Regional College students, will continue touring schools in Hertfordshire, accompanied by lessons on vaping risks and mental health. Hertfordshire County Council encourages the public to report suspected illegal vape sales via its website.

Author: Sophia Brooks