Experts Call For Public Awareness on Rising E-Cigarette Use in Pakistan

Health experts have called for raising public awareness towards increasing e-cigarette usage among teenagers and the negative health impact of tobacco use. They also advocated for effective e-cigarette control policies in the country.

Anti Tobacco and Vaping Campaigns

Talking to a private news channel, lung specialist Prof. Dr. Javed Khan stressed on the need for rigorous anti-tobacco campaigns and the rising trend of e-cigarettes among the youth to create awareness about the harmful effects of smoking.

He said that the rising popularity of vaping means that roughly 5 percent of the country’s teenagers have switched to e-cigarettes. The professor added that there should be a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes for youngsters.

“We remain extremely troubled about the rapid increase in the number of youth using these products, and have repeatedly called upon the authorities concerned to increase their oversight and scrutiny in this regard,” he noted.

According to the health expert, the use of e-cigarettes among the youth is a significant public health concern. He urged that steps must be taken by parents, educators and policymakers to discourage the use of e-cigarettes.

Harmful Chemicals in E-Cigs

Dr. Javed explained that many harmful chemicals, including nicotine, are being used in e-cigarettes which are toxic to humans and can cause health issues.

E-cigarettes are known by many different names. They are referred to as “e-cigs,” “e-hookahs,” “mods,” “vape pens,” “vapes,” “tank systems,” and “electronic nicotine delivery systems”.

Health Problems Caused by E-Cigarettes

”Chemicals in vaping fluid also can cause acute lung injuries and contribute to lung and cardiovascular disease down the line,” the specialist said.

Moreover, he said, that we need to educate the youth about the product.

The retail sale of e-cigarettes is allowed in the country and there are no restrictions on the use and labeling of e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are not completely risk-free but when compared to smoking, evidence shows that they carry just a fraction of the harm.