For a study, it was determined that introduction of Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) to the market without the comprehensive preclinical toxicological research or long-term safety trials required for traditional pharmaceuticals or medical devices. Because e-cigarettes as tobacco products, they were not subject to any manufacturing quality or safety regulations. An increasing amount of research shows that e-cigarette usage causes serious consequences, including product explosion injuries, nicotine poisoning, and severe lung disorders. Inhalation toxicity of commonly used e-cigarette components was high. Emerging information from laboratory studies raises serious concerns about long-term consequences, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer. E-cigarette use was linked to lower smoking cessation rates among current smokers and a higher risk of relapse among former smokers, rather than helping them quit.
“Unlike the tried and tested nicotine and non-nicotine pharmacotherapies that are known to assist patients to quit tobacco smoking, WHO does not promote e-cigarettes as cessation aids,” the World Health Organization warns. After a thorough review of all available information, healthcare providers should strongly advise against prescribing or recommending e-cigarettes to tobacco-dependent people. If a patient is addicted to e-cigarettes, the healthcare professional should offer counseling and treatment (for nicotine addiction) to assist the patient in quitting.
Reference:www.atsjournals.org/doi/full/10.1513/AnnalsATS.202009-1113CME
