Blowing smoke: House panel’s vape verdict sparks fiery debate
In a twist that’s left health experts fuming, the House special committee on e-cigarettes has rolled out a controversial trio of recommendations that some claim cater to the pro-smoking lobby. The options on the table: uphold the complete ban on e-cigarettes, legalise heated tobacco products (HTPs), or give the all-clear to all forms of e-cigarettes. Cue a storm of backlash from health organisations across the nation.
This firestorm of criticism comes courtesy of top minds at the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre, the Action Against Smoking and Health Foundation, and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation. They’re calling for a deep dive into the committee’s findings, alarmed by the apparent sway of industry interests.
Leading the charge, Associate Professor Dr Roengrudee Patanavanich from Mahidol University reveals a shocking discovery: the committee chairman, Pheu Thai MP Niyom Wiwatthanaditkul, isn’t alone in deciding these policies.
Two members have ties with the tobacco industry: a direct hit to the committee’s integrity and a breach of Article 5.3 of the World Tobacco Control Convention, said Dr Roengrudee, casting doubt on the impartiality of the findings.
“It’s a glaring conflict of interest.”
The prospect of legalising e-cigarettes bucks the global trend of slapping bans on them. Nations such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Brazil have dug in their heels, restricting e-cigarette use.
Dr Roengrudee underscores how even countries permitting e-cigarettes, like the UK and France, have clamped down on the disposable variety.
Adding fuel to the fire, Assoc. Prof. Dr Prakit Vathesatogkit from the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation slams the report for glossing over control measures should e-cigarettes become legal, with e-cigarettes already sneaking past laws.
“If legalised, we could see over 25% of our youth hooked!”
Dr Prakit also rings alarm bells over the budget blowout that legalising imports might trigger. It’s not just about sales, it means pouring money into monitoring, enforcement, and treatment: a costly exercise that he dreads.
“It’s a financial burden, with more agencies needed, specialised staff, and pricey lab equipment.”
Aligning with these concerns, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases advises nations with modest means, Thailand included, to ban e-cigarettes and HTPs outright, reported Bangkok Post.
Economic mirage
Economic claims have not escaped scrutiny either. Prof. Isra Sarntisart, from the National Tobacco Product Control Board, slams the notion that legalisation would boost tax revenue, an economic mirage, he argues.
“Switching smokers to e-cigarettes won’t increase revenues unless we see more smokers.”
Furthermore, Prof Isra points out that legalising unflavoured HTPs won’t tackle the real issue, as underage users often chase flavoured versions.
A US study he cites paints a grim picture: tax gains from e-cigarettes barely scratch the surface of medical costs from associated illnesses, highlighting the hidden hazards to children’s health.
Yet another expert voice, Assoc. Prof. Dr Nitas Sirichotirat from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, chimes in, spotlighting smoking’s threat to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
“Our taxes pay for treating smoke-related illnesses. E-cigarettes harm more than just smokers—they threaten our youth. Protecting them from addiction is imperative.”
As the smoke clears on this regulatory tug-of-war, one thing is certain: the stakes for Thailand’s future are sky-high
What Other Media Are Saying
- Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation highlights a significant rise in e-cigarette use among Hoosier adults, revealing alarming health risks and economic impacts, urging awareness despite a decline in youth vaping statewide. (read more)
- Science Media Centre highlights expert reactions to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, stressing the need for comprehensive measures to combat smoking while balancing vaping regulation to ensure harm reduction for adult smokers. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why might the involvement of tobacco-associated individuals in policy-making compromise e-cigarette regulations?
Such involvement may bias decisions towards tobacco interests, undermining public health efforts and contravening international agreements.
How could legalising e-cigarettes financially impact the Thai government?
Legalisation may require significant investment in regulations and health measures, potentially outweighing any tax revenue gains.
What if Thailand follows the UK model for e-cigarette regulation?
Despite regulations, youth usage remains high in the UK, suggesting similar challenges could arise in Thailand.
How does the global trend in e-cigarette regulation contradict the committee’s recommendations?
Many countries enforce bans or stringent measures, contrasting with proposals to legalise e-cigarettes in Thailand.
Why is smoking considered a barrier to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals?
Smoking-related diseases strain healthcare systems and perpetuate economic inequality, hindering progress on health and equality goals.
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