Final answer:
The statement about the risks of e-cigarettes to adolescents is true due to their ongoing development and increased susceptibility to nicotine addiction and health risks from chemicals in e-cigarettes, as well as targeted marketing of flavored products.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement adolescents are especially vulnerable to the physical and mental health risks of e-cigarettes due to their bodies not yet being fully developed is true. Adolescents' bodies and brains are still developing, which makes them more susceptible to the addictive nature of nicotine and the potential harm caused by other chemicals found in e-cigarettes, such as diacetyl, which can cause "popcorn lung," and formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Public health officials have expressed concern that e-cigarettes may serve as a gateway to traditional smoking and have highlighted the appeal of flavored e-cigarettes to youth.
Additionally, younger individuals may not have fully developed risk assessment capabilities, leading to riskier behavior such as experimenting with vaping, which can rapidly lead to addiction. The marketing strategies of e-cigarette manufacturers, using flavors that appeal to a younger audience, further exacerbate the issue. While the regulatory environment is evolving, with some states prohibiting sales of e-cigarettes to minors, consistent enforcement and education are critical in mitigating the risks adolescents face from e-cigarettes.