WHO Urges to Treat Vapes The Same As Traditional Tobacco And Ban All Flavors

The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a document on December 14. It urges governments to treat vapes the same as traditional tobacco and ban all flavors. This may threat tobacco companies’ investment in tobacco alternatives.

There is an “urgent need” to take steps to control the vape devices.

Some researchers, advocates and governments regard vaping devices as important tool in reducing death and disease caused by tobacco. However, the UN agency says there is an “urgent need” to take steps to control them.

Citing some studies, the WHO says there is not enough evidence to prove that vaping products help smokers quit smoking. And they are harmful to health. What’s more, it may cause nicotine addiction in non-smokers, especially children and adolescents.

Globally, the number of 13-15 teenagers who use vapes are more than adults. In a press release, the WHO cited strong marketing guidance for vapes.

The WHO article mentions that children and adolescents who are lured and bound into the chain of vapes at an early age. They may become addicted to nicotine.

WHO Secretary-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on countries to implement strict measures.

WHO calls include a ban on all vape flavorings such as menthol. And calls for the enforcement of tobacco control measures on vapes, including high taxes on vapes and bans vape using in public places.

However, the WHO has no authority over national regulations and can only issue guidance. These recommendations are usually accepted and practiced voluntarily.

In addition, the WHO and some other anti-tobacco groups are pushing for tighter regulation of new nicotine products. Such as, cracking down on alternatives to future strategies of some tobacco giants such as PMI and BAT.

Major tobacco companies are looking to build new revenue streams from tobacco alternatives as shrinking smoking rates and strict regulations on tobacco products put pressure on some markets.

For detailed WHO Call to vapels, view at Electronic cigarettes: call to action

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