Vaping has become an alarming trend among young students across the country recently.

Highlighted on the airwaves this week callers rang into Joe Duffey's Live Line discussing the potential health risks and long-term consequences associated with this habit.

One distressed father called in to the show and told the listeners that his 13-year-old daughter is addicted to vaping and that she has been smoking vapes since primary school.

Local Cllr Niall Kelliher also called into the show to express his shock around the litter issue. Kelliher spoke about how a new solar powered bin which is located in town has been covered with 'hundreds' of stickers which form a part of the packaging on vaping products.

One of the main reasons for the surge in vaping among young people is the misconception that it is less harmful than smoking, but many health professionals warn that the long-term effects of vaping on lung health and overall well-being are still largely unknown.

Marketing tactics of these vape companies have also been called in to question with flavoured e-liquids and sleek, discreet devices making vaping more appealing to young users. The allure of various flavours, ranging from fruit to dessert-inspired options, has made it easier for young people to start and continue vaping. Have you seen a rise in vaping among young students in Killarney? Let us know your story by emailing info@killarneyadvertiser.ie