2023-12-14 15:30:19
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for all flavored e-cigarettes to be banned worldwide and treated similarly to regular cigarettes.
The organization said on Thursday that there is a need for “urgent measures” to control electronic cigarettes, as there is little evidence to indicate that electronic smoking helps smokers to quit regular cigarettes, and it can lead to nicotine addiction in non-smokers.
It urged changes, including banning all flavoring agents such as menthol, and implementing the same measures used to control regular cigarettes, including: raising taxes and banning use in public places.
The World Health Organization also warned that e-cigarettes have also gained widespread use among young men and women, which may lead to addiction.
The organization’s report stated that the number of people between the ages of 13 and 15 who use e-cigarettes is more than adult users in all regions of the World Health Organization, thanks to intensive marketing.
“Children are being recruited and trapped at an early age to use e-cigarettes and may become addicted to nicotine,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the organisation’s Director-General.
The World Health Organization said that e-cigarettes generate substances, some of which are known to cause cancer and pose risks to heart and lung health. She added, citing studies, that it could also harm brain development in young people.
Meanwhile, tobacco company Imperial Brands (IMB.L) and e-cigarette company ANDS said e-cigarettes pose far fewer health risks than tobacco and help reduce its harm, while flavors are key in encouraging smokers to switch.
Scientists from universities in Virginia and North Carolina reported that when e-cigarette users smoke in their cars for less than 10 minutes, the air around them becomes laden with potentially toxic particles known as PM2.5.
PM2.5 can be generated from both natural and man-made sources, such as burning fossil fuels. When inhaled, the substance penetrates the lungs and irritates the entire respiratory system, which may cause or worsen asthma and bronchitis.
It is worth noting that the WHO directives are not mandatory at the national level, but can be adopted voluntarily.
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