Ministry of Public Health Issues Warning on E-Cigarettes, Emphasizing Major Health Hazards

Think before you vape

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued a stark warning against the use of e-cigarettes, emphasizing the severe health risks associated with their consumption.

"Think before you vape. Understand the hidden dangers of e-cigarettes," urged the Ministry in a video message.

By law, the sale, distribution, and advertising of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited in Qatar.

Globally, more than 37 million young people are e-cigarette users. In Qatar, approximately 11% of tobacco users are reported to use electronic cigarettes.

Highlighting the dangers, the ministry cautioned that e-cigarettes contain harmful chemicals and urged individuals to refrain from their use.

The visual presentation by the ministry outlined the adverse effects linked to electronic smoking devices, including vapes, vape pens, e-cigarettes, and e-shisha. These health risks encompass cardiovascular diseases, stroke, cancer, gum and oral lesions, nicotine addiction, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Smokers face twice the risk of developing coronary heart disease and are at heightened risk of long-term lung ailments such as COPD. Furthermore, nearly 90% of lung cancer cases are attributed to smoking.

The MoPH's warning forms part of broader efforts by health authorities to combat the use of e-cigarettes. They emphasize that vaping is not recognized as a viable method to quit smoking, lacks scientific endorsement, and is not approved as a smoking cessation aid by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Qatar has implemented robust tobacco control measures, including comprehensive smoking bans in indoor public spaces and certain outdoor areas. The nation also enforces stringent regulations on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship to reduce tobacco consumption and discourage smoking initiation among youth.

Awareness campaigns frequently underscore the health hazards associated with smoking and advocate for smoke-free environments. Qatar's healthcare system provides resources for smoking cessation, including counseling services and nicotine replacement therapies, to support individuals in quitting smoking.

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) offer smoking cessation services. The PHCC operates these services across 15 health centers, while HMC's Tobacco Control Center provides specialized support for smoking cessation.

 

Source: The Peninsula Qatar