According to the Italian media outlet ItaliaChiamaItalia, two major medical organizations, the European Confederation of Primary Care Paediatricians (ECPCP) and the European Academy of Paediatrics (Eap), recently released an important document recommending the prohibition of minors from using e-cigarettes with or without nicotine. Adults would be required to obtain a prescription from a doctor proving their tobacco dependence and participation in smoking cessation treatment in order to purchase e-cigarette products.
The document expresses serious concerns about the prevalence of e-cigarettes among adolescents and children, emphasizing their potential risks. These risks are often underestimated and include severe short-term effects on respiratory, cardiovascular, and ocular health, as well as long-term nicotine dependence.
President of ECPCP, Laura Reali, pointed out that the nicotine content of e-cigarettes can be up to ten times higher than traditional tobacco cigarettes, making adolescents more susceptible to becoming victims of nicotine dependence and relying on this deadly substance. She also mentioned that there is emerging data in the literature indicating the impact of e-cigarette use on fetal development in pregnant women, as well as the long-term carcinogenic risks associated with extended use of e-cigarettes.
Lei Ali emphasized that governments should classify e-cigarettes as pharmaceuticals rather than consumer goods, due to their clear side effects. She called for strict regulation of the sale and use of e-cigarettes worldwide. EAP and ECPCP are in complete agreement with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in advocating for a total ban on e-cigarettes, allowing only those with a medical prescription for smoking cessation therapy to purchase them.
E-cigarettes were first introduced in the 1980s as a substitute therapy for tobacco dependence, similar to methadone for heroin addicts. However, with the expansion of the market, e-cigarette designs and flavors are increasingly attracting young people. Data shows that this appealing design is leading young people to develop a dependence on e-cigarettes, and potentially transition to traditional tobacco use.
Member of the Italian Pediatry Medical Committee, Valentina Grimaldi, expressed concern over the widespread use of these products among young people, as it may ultimately lead them to become dependent on traditional tobacco. She emphasized that the best way to protect the health of young people is through prevention rather than treatment.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
