Urgent need to control use of e-cigarettes: WHO

Source: The post is based on the article “Urgent need to control use of e-cigarettes: WHO” published in “The Hindu” on 15th December 2023

Why in the News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a report on e-cigarettes titled Electronic Cigarettes: Call to Action.

What are Electronic Cigarettes?

1) E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat up a liquid (e-liquid) to produce an aerosol that the user inhales.

2) This aerosol often contains nicotine, the addictive drug in traditional cigarettes, as well as other chemicals and flavourings.

3) It is also known as vapes, vape pens and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).

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What are the Regulations on the Use of E-cigarettes Worldwide?

1) Thirty-four countries have banned the sale of e-cigarettes, 88 countries have no minimum age at which e-cigarettes can be bought and 74 countries have no regulations in place for these harmful products. 

2) In India, the possession of e-cigarettes and similar devices is a violation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act, 2019.

What are the Key Highlights from the WHO Report on E-cigarettes?

1) E-cigarettes are often promoted as a less harmful alternative to conventional cigarettes. But they are not shown to be effective for quitting tobacco use at the population level.

2) It has been found that they generate harmful substances that are linked to cancer, heart and lung diseases and brain development issues.

2) Exposure to e-cigarette content on social media also increases the likelihood of use.

3) Studies have shown that young people who use e-cigarettes are almost three times more likely to use cigarettes later in life.

4) Studies have shown that kids aged 13-15 are using e-cigarettes more than adults worldwide. For example, in Canada, e-cigarette use among 16 to 19-year-olds doubled between 2017 and 2022.

5) Hence, WHO has urged countries to implement strict measures to control the use of e-cigarettes.

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