Philippines: E-cigarette''s Inclusion in Graphic Warning Law Pushed

Source from:  Manila Bulletin 03/02/2015

Graphic health warnings (GHW) must likewise be printed or strategically placed on packs of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) products, according to a group of anti-smoking advocates.

Emer Rojas president of New Vois Association of the Philippines (NVAP) has insisted on the placement of the picture warnings claiming that recent studies revealed that e-cigarettes contain hazardous chemicals that pose health risks to users.

"There is also a need for picture warnings to be placed on the e-cigarette packs since new research shows evidence of some dangers in using electronic cigarettes," Rojas said.

Republic Act 10643 is a law that effectively instills health consciousness and carries reminders on the adverse effects of smoking through graphic health warnings on tobacco products.

Rojas said that the public should be informed through GHW that e-cigarettes, just like regular tobacco products are also hazardous to health.

Japan's Health Ministry, in a recent research discovered carcinogens such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde in the vapor produced by several types of e-cigarette liquid.

In particular, the study pointed that formaldehyde in e-cigarettes was present at much higher levels than what is found in the smoke from regular cigarettes.

Formaldehyde is a substance also found in building materials and embalming fluids.

"E-cigarettes are being promoted by some dealers as ideal nicotine replacement therapy (NRTs) gadgets for those who want to quit smoking. But are they really the healthier option for smokers? Obviously, recent studies do not show it as such," Rojas stated.

The e-cigarette is made of plastic and metal device that heat a liquid nicotine solution (e-juice) in a disposable cartridge while creating a tiny light on the tip mimicking a lighted real cigarette.

It also produces a vapor that simulates tobacco smoke. Enditem