The Electronic cigarettes are “unquestionably harmful”. This is the conclusion of a World Health Organization report (WHO) presented on July 26 in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). The institution therefore advises against this solution for stop smokingbecause it is not a healthy alternative to tobacco. It would even present “health risks”.
Vaping, which consists of inhaling vapors created by heating a liquid to a high temperature (with or without nicotine), however, exposes you to fewer toxic substances than conventional cigarettes, recognizes the WHO. Studies on its misdeeds have multiplied since its rise in the mid-2000s, but the conclusions differ.
Little or no positive impact
This new report assesses the results of measures taken by governments, called MPOWER, and advocated to stem the “global tobacco epidemic”. At first, its authors fear that the e-cigarette will pushes the youngest to use tobacco afterwards. It would also be the subject of a disinformation conveyed by the tobacco industry. “Fake news” which constitutes a “current and real threat”.
Moreover, they underline the lack of evidence of its effectiveness in quitting smoking. “In most countries where they are available, [ses] users generally continue to smoke combustible cigarettes at the same time, which has little or no positive impact. “ on risk reduction, it is specified.
Promotion of other alternatives
But the WHO remains cautious, and says that the available evidence on harmfulness of electronic cigarettes about health “are inconclusive”. “Although the level of risk associated with Sean (electronic nicotine delivery system) has not been conclusively measured, Sean are unquestionably harmful and will therefore need to be regulated.”, she judges. Again, a lot of research has been done, for various results.
Six strategies, other than vaping, are thus proposed by the institution to discourage tobacco use:
- Control of the use of e-cigarettes and the implementation of prevention policies;
- Protection of the public against smoke;
- The promotion of aids to quit smoking;
- Warning campaigns against the dangers of tobacco;
- Respect for bans on advertising, promotion or sponsorship;
- The increase in taxes.
Last June, San Francisco (United States) chose a more drastic option, being the first city in the world to completely ban the sale of electronic cigarettes.
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