—Prof. Dr. Md. Habibe Millat–

The Author

World No Tobacco Day 2024 brought to light a critical issue: protecting children from the tobacco industry’s interference. As we move forward, it is essential to focus on the rising problem of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among our youth. These elegant, battery-powered devices, often seen as modern and safer alternatives to smoking (propagated by Big Tobacco companies), have become alarmingly popular, especially with young people (children and Deadly Clutch of E-Cigarettes: Strengthening Laws Can Safeguard a Healthier Futureadolescents). But behind their trendy image lies a serious threat to health and well-being that we must address immediately.

E-cigarettes have quickly become a popular choice among young people in Bangladesh and around the world. Advertised as comparatively cooler and safer than traditional smoking, they attract many teenagers. Unfortunately, this appeal has led to a worrying increase in nicotine addiction among our youth. Instead of helping smokers quit, e-cigarettes are leading many young people into a new cycle of addiction, creating more health problems and economic burdens for our country.

E-cigarettes, also known as Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), work by heating a liquid to create vapour that users inhale, mimicking smoking. These devices are often called e-cigs, vape pens or mods. Their wide range of flavours, from mint and vanilla to strawberry and chocolate, makes vaping seem attractive and harmless, especially to young people.

E-CIGARETTES

Despite their appealing flavours, e-cigarettes pose serious health risks. Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine shows they contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, which can cause cancer. The vapour can also carry dangerous particles and substances that harm the lungs and heart. E-cigarettes also contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can trap users in a cycle of dependence. Additionally, the batteries in these devices can be hazardous, sometimes leading to fires or explosions. The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that e-cigarettes are harmful and can lead to addiction, especially in children and teens.

In Bangladesh, the e-cigarette problem is particularly concerning. With nearly half of our 160 million people under 24 year age, the tobacco industry aggressively targets our youth. E-cigarettes and similar products are often promoted as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes. However, this is misleading and dangerous.  By the aggressive and tricky advertising tactics of the tobacco industries, these products are popular and can lead to lifelong addiction, endangering the future health of young Bangladeshis.

Tobacco-related illnesses claim about 161,000 lives in Bangladesh each year, costing families and the nation around Tk8,000 crore annually (including medical expenses and lost productivity). Despite the growing use of e-cigarettes, there has been little effective regulation. To address this issue effectively, we first have to increase awareness about the dangers of e-cigarettes. Educating children, parents and the broader community about the health risks and addictive nature of these products is essential. Clear and accessible information should be provided to dispel myths and promote understanding of the severe consequences associated with vaping. And definitely, we need to strengthen our Tobacco Control Laws (TCL).

World No Tobacco Day has reminded us of the urgent need to protect our children from the dangers of e-cigarettes. It is up to all of us to act. By strengthening our tobacco control law, increasing tobacco taxes and raising awareness, we can safeguard the health of our youth and ensure a brighter, tobacco-free future for Bangladesh. We must act now to protect our children from the tobacco industry’s harmful influence. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard public health and protect the future of our nation from the dangers of e-cigarette addiction.

The tobacco industry’s grip on young people is strong and harmful. Delaying action puts the health of future generations at risk. The proposed amendments (i.e., a complete ban on smoking in public places and public transport, display of tobacco products at outlets, ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’ (CSR) activities by tobacco companies, retail sale of bidi-cigarettes, sale of unwrapped tobacco products and sale of e-cigarettes, and increasing the size of pictorial health warnings on tobacco product packets/boxes) to our laws are essential to limit the reach of e-cigarettes and safeguard our youth from addiction.

The journey ahead is tough, but with strong action and dedication, we can combat the threat of e-cigarettes. Let’s take decisive action now. Together, we can build a future where our children grow up free from the dangers of nicotine addiction.

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The writer is a former parliamentarian and founding Chairman of Shastho Shurokkha Foundation. Email: [email protected]