A charity is working with groups in Bristol and the police to raise awareness over the use of 'nos'. The substance - commonly known as laughing gas - has become more popular with 16-24 year olds, who use it for recreational purposes.
The sight of the small discarded metal cylinders have become a common sight along the streets of Bristol.
International Islamic charity Dawat-e-Islami launched a national campaign to raise awareness of the potential dangers of taking nos. It has been using Friday mosque services to engage with people about the drug.
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Imran Khan, who is leading this campaign in Bristol, said: “Recently we have seen a lot of canisters lying around on the main road. The conclusion we came to was that those taking this gas are not aware of the consequences, and many adults are not aware of what these canisters are.
“This is why we have launched a campaign to raise awareness about this issue. Many members of the public have approached and thanked Dawat-e-Islami for raising this awareness regarding canisters.”
The law on the gas, commonly used for pain relief during childbirth, is set to change which could see the prosecution of those who use it for recreational purposes. The gas canisters, which are also used in professional kitchens, can be easily purchased online, although its sale to children is already illegal.
Medical professionals have warned of the dangers of laughing gas. Dr David Nicholl, a neurologist at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS trust made a TikTok video to warn people about the dangers, stating that the hospital has seen a rise in “life-changing neurological injuries”.
Others have raised concerns over the chemical compound being linked to a vitamin B12 deficiency and spinal cord nerve injuries. In 2019-20, one in 10 16-24 year olds were reported to have taken the substance, which is usually inhaled via a balloon.
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