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Experts Call For Sensible Vape Regulation In Media Workshop

Experts Call For Sensible Vape Regulation In Media Workshop

Studies suggest that vaping may be a less harmful alternative to smoking, but more research is needed.

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As the popularity of vaping continues to rise, governments worldwide are grappling with how to regulate this relatively new industry.

In Malaysia, lawmakers are considering legislation regulating the sale and use of e-cigarettes and other vaping products.

Proponents of vaping argue that it is a healthier alternative to smoking.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, responsible for over 8 million deaths annually.

Dr Colin Mendelsohn, an expert on smoking cessation and tobacco harm reduction, said vaping, on the other hand, is less harmful than smoking and can help smokers quit.

At a recent regional media workshop by Asia’s leading e-cigarette brand RELX, the Australian-based medical practitioner explained vaping and its effectiveness in quitting smoking.

One of the main issues discussed at the media workshop was the need for evidence-based regulation of vaping products. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

The Case for Evidence-Based Vape Regulation

Dr Colin, who has been helping smokers quit for over 30 years, pointed out that vaping involves heating a liquid (usually nicotine) into an inhaled vapour.

Unlike smoking, which involves burning tobacco and inhaling smoke, vaping does not produce tar or carbon monoxide, two of the most harmful substances in tobacco smoke.

Dr Colin Mendelsohn dispelling myths, provide evidence about vaping.

He has written a book, Stop Smoking, Start Vaping, which aims to dispel myths, provide evidence about vaping, and offer guidance on switching from smoking to vaping.

The book also explores the controversies surrounding vaping and provides case studies of former smokers who have successfully switched to vaping.

Journalists from various media outlets attended the workshop in Manila, featuring industry leaders’ presentations on tobacco harm reduction. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

Dr Mendelsohn discussed the need for sensible and evidence-based regulation of vaping products, citing the potential benefits of e-cigarettes as a harm-reduction tool for smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit smoking.

Studies have shown that vaping is less harmful than smoking and can help smokers quit.

He also noted that e-cigarettes were more effective than nicotine-replacement therapy (gum or patches) for smoking cessation.

Despite these benefits, vaping is not without risks.

The long-term health effects of vaping are still unclear, and there have been reports of serious lung injuries and deaths.

This is why legislation is so important.

Philippines RELX International Head of External Affairs, Patrick Dillon, talks about effective approaches to harm reduction through youth prevention and RELX’s
Guardian Program. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

By regulating the sale and use of e-cigarettes and other vaping products, governments can ensure that these products are safe and not being marketed to children or non-smokers.

RELX Global Head of External Affairs, Eddie Chew, said the media workshop on the importance of vape regulation was a valuable opportunity for journalists to learn about the latest research and developments in tobacco harm reduction.

By promoting informed and evidence-based reporting on vaping, we can help ensure that consumers have access to accurate information about these products, and that sensible regulations are put in place to protect public health

RELX Global Head of External Affairs, Eddie Chew, on one of the main issues discussed at the media workshop.
Media practitioners from Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines visit a RELX store in Okada Manila. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

The workshop also featured a panel discussion, during which journalists could ask questions and dialogue with the experts.

They discussed various topics related to vaping, including concerns about youth vaping, the role of flavours in vaping products, and the potential health risks associated with long-term vaping.

The media workshop on the importance of vape regulation was an important opportunity to discuss some of the key issues related to vaping and tobacco harm reduction. (Pix: Fernando Fong)

Malaysia At A Crossroad

On 1 April, the Malaysian government exempted nicotine liquids and gels from the Poisons Act 1952, effectively legalizing vaping and allowing them to be sold on the open market and taxed.

Nevertheless, lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban the sale of e-cigarettes and other vaping products to minors, require health warnings on packaging, and restrict advertising and promotion of these products.

There is now a legal loophole where the government cannot control their sale to and consumption by youths and children.

The Control of Tobacco Products and Smoking Bill 2022 is expected to be tabled in Parliament, which aims to prohibit the sale and use of smoking products to individuals born from 2007.

Critics of vaping argue that it is still a form of nicotine addiction and should be discouraged altogether.

However, proponents argue that it is a safer alternative to smoking and can help smokers quit.

As the debate over vaping continues, it is clear that legislation is needed to ensure that these products are used safely and responsibly.

By regulating the sale and use of e-cigarettes and other vaping products, governments can help protect public health and reduce the harm caused by smoking.

READ MORE: Vape Consumer Association Push For Regulation Instead Of Endgame Ban


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