AMONG the youth of Pakistan, a mindless ignorance has spread like wildfire, where following any trend is upheld like a sacred duty. No matter how dim or senseless the trend may be, it is still followed to uphold a fake sense of respect and to just ‘fit in’ amongst one’s peers.

Take, for instance, the trend of vaping and using nicotine pouches that has become a norm for millions of our young indivi-duals. Although these habits may seem like fun, it is important to note that nicotine is highly addictive and can harm the brain, and damage respiratory and cardiac organs. Nicotine pouches can irritate gums, increase blood pressure, and pose cardio-vascular risks.

Societal pressure has created circum-stances where whoever avoids indulging in such harmful activities is seen as either a ‘coward’ or ‘weak’ by the peers. The rise in the use of such toxic products clearly indicates the direction in which the nation is heading, and the trajectory should alert the state. Due action surely needs to be taken so that the youth may be kept away from harmful and destructive activities.

Safiullah Faisal
Sheikhupura

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2026