Gr.

11 STEM students who use e-cigarettes have been linked to a number of impacts,
both good and bad. According to research, e-cigarettes still contain nicotine
(Hajek et al., 2019), which can harm an adolescent's developing brain, even though
they may be less dangerous than traditional cigarettes because they don't burn and
contain fewer harmful chemicals (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and
Medicine, 2018). Additionally, there is worry that e-cigarettes could act as a
gateway to nicotine use among students increasing the overall rates of tobacco
initiation, even while they may help some adult smokers stop(Soneji et al., 2017).

Additionally Gr 11 STEM Students who use e-cigarettes may experience negative

effects on their academic performance. According to research, students who use e-
cigarettes are more likely to struggle with memory, concentration, and learning,
which can have a negative effect on their academic performance and grades (Chadi et
al., 2019).

Nicotine addiction is one of the challenges that can negatively impact the academic
performance of Gr. 11 STEM students, can lead to increased impulsivity and
decreased attention span (Leventhal et al., 2015). Additionally, the health effects
of e-cigarettes, including respiratory issues, can result in increased absenteeism
and decreased academic performance. Furthermore, some students who use e-cigarettes
may be excluded by their classmates, which can have a negative effect on both their
academic performance and mental health. The use of e-cigarettes remains taboo even
though it is very common. STEM students who use e-cigarettes run the risk of being
judged which can affect their mental health (Chadi et al., 2019).