In recent years Pakistan has witnessed a concerning surge in the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) particularly among the younger generation. Experts are raising alarm bells emphasizing the serious health risks associated with these seemingly innocuous devices.
Risks to respiratory, oral and brain health:
Medical professionals including Dr. Malik Riaz Khan, the Principal Medical Officer at Nowshera’s government hospital Pabbi have pointed out that e-cigarettes pose an equal if not greater threat to health compared to traditional cigarettes. The regular use of these devices can lead to respiratory, oral and brain issues, exposing users to the risks of lung, oral and mouth cancers.
Impact on brain development and mental health:
One of the most significant concerns is the impact of e-cigarettes on the developing brains of young adults especially college and university students. Dr. Qazi Shahbaz, Chairman of the Provincial Doctors Association highlights the potential for long-term harm to brain development, IQ and an increased risk of depression and anxiety. E-cigarettes often contain nicotine, an addictive substance with adverse effects on heart rate, blood pressure and brain function.
Tobacco industry manipulation:
The fight against the rise of e-cigarettes is not only a health battle but also a struggle against manipulative tactics employed by the tobacco industry. Civil society organizations like Blue Veins and the Provincial Alliance for Sustainable Tobacco Control urge the government to remain vigilant against third parties and front groups working in tandem with the tobacco industry. They stress the need for concerted efforts to combat these nefarious strategies that prioritize industry interests over public health.
Urgent call for action:
In response to the escalating risk, the Provincial Alliance for Sustainable Tobacco Control KP has called for an immediate ban on e-cigarettes and vapes in Pakistan. This call aligns with recent directives from the World Health Organization (WHO) advocating for e-cigarettes to be treated similarly to traditional tobacco products with a complete ban enforced for the well-being of future generations.
Government intervention:
The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has taken a significant step by imposing Section 144 to ban the storage, sale and use of e-cigarettes and vapes to minors and within the vicinity of educational institutions. The decision reflects a growing recognition of the need to protect the youth from falling prey to nicotine addiction and its harmful consequences.
As Pakistan grapples with the rising use of e-cigarettes, it is crucial for authorities, healthcare professionals and civil society to work in tandem to address this public health crisis. Strict regulations, awareness campaigns and a united front against the tobacco industry’s manipulative tactics are essential to safeguard the well-being of the younger generation and prevent the undoing of progress made in tobacco control. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated and immediate action is required to curb the growing threat posed by e-cigarettes in Pakistan.
