According to Helsinki Times, the World Medical Association (WMA) has once again emphasized the World Health Organization’s (WHO) risk warnings regarding e-cigarette products. This warning corresponds to the global proliferation of e-cigarettes, particularly among young people, and the lack of regulation in several countries in this regard.
In a recent report, the World Medical Association (WMA) has issued a grave warning regarding the dangers of e-cigarettes, in response to concerns raised by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is worth noting that this warning comes amidst the increasing popularity of e-cigarettes worldwide, particularly among young people, and the lack of adequate regulation in many countries.
Lujain Alqodmani, the President of WMA, has emphasized the urgent need for governments to take action to protect children and adolescents. She highlighted the alarming findings from a WHO report which revealed that 88 countries do not have a minimum age restriction for purchasing e-cigarettes, while 74 countries lack effective regulatory oversight for these harmful products.
As one of the few nations actively monitoring the use of e-cigarettes among teenagers, the United States recently released concerning data through a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The survey revealed that 27.9% of high school students (grades 9-13) use tobacco products, with e-cigarettes being the most popular choice at a rate of 22.6%. This trend may be indicative of the situation in many other countries.
Earlier this year, the World Medical Association issued a revised statement on e-cigarettes and other electronic nicotine delivery systems, calling for greater protection of children and adolescents. Professor Alcodamani stated, “These products must be seen as harmful rather than safe. We must prohibit the sale, marketing, distribution, and provision of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products to children and adolescents.
The World Medical Association is calling on governments worldwide to regulate e-cigarettes in accordance with the provisions of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and subject them to smoke-free regulations. This action aims to curb the increasing trend of youth using e-cigarettes and propose solutions to the public health challenges posed by these products. The position of the association further strengthens the global consensus on stricter regulation of e-cigarettes to protect public health, particularly the health of the younger generation.
