Published on 17 Feb 2025
E-cigarettes are a type of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) that vaporizes a liquid instead of burning tobacco and then inhaled. India has banned e-cigarettes with the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019.
Issues of E-Cigarettes
✔ Addictiveness: Using nicotine in e-cigarettes shows they can be just as addictive as regular cigarettes.
● Example: Research has demonstrated that nicotine in e-cigarettes can lead to dependence similar to traditional cigarettes.
✔ Tumour Growth: Nicotine has the potential to stimulate tumour growth.
● Example: The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that some e-cigarette liquids and emissions are considered "toxic," potentially affecting cell growth.
✔ Cardiovascular and Respiratory Issues: E-cigarettes are associated with heart and lung disorders.
✔ Developmental Risks: E-cigarette use during pregnancy is linked to developmental issues in foetuses.
✔ Youth Appeal: E-cigarettes are popular among adolescents and young adults.
✔ Lack of Regulation: Many e-cigarette products are not well-regulated, leading to variability in safety and quality.
✔ Misleading Marketing: E-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, which may lead to increased use.
Way Forward
✔ Stricter Regulations: Implement comprehensive regulations for e-cigarette manufacturing and marketing.
● Example: The EU’s Tobacco Products Directive regulates e-cigarette components and marketing to ensure safety and reduce appeal to youth.
✔ Public Awareness: Increase public education on the potential risks of e-cigarette use.
✔ Youth Prevention: Enforce stricter age restrictions and penalties for selling e-cigarettes to minors.
✔ Research and Monitoring: Conduct more research on the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes and monitor their impact.
✔ Harm Reduction Programs: Develop programs to help users transition away from nicotine products.
● Example: Support programs that offer counselling and resources for quitting nicotine, similar to those available for traditional smoking cessation.
Social Sector
E-cigarettes
Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act 2019
Nicotine
General Studies Paper 2
Social Justice
Related Articles