Malaysia Warns E-Cigarette Treatment Costs Could Hit $80M by 2030

Nov.14.2024

Malaysia's Health Ministry warns that treatment costs for e-cigarette-related lung injuries (Evali) could surge to $82.24 million by 2030, while 41 Evali cases have been reported since 2019.

According to Free Malaysia Today's report on November 14th, the Malaysian Ministry of Health (KKM) has warned that the treatment costs for the illness related to the use of e-cigarettes or vaping products, known as "Evali," are expected to soar to 369 million Malaysian Ringgit (82.24 million USD) by 2030.

The Minister of Health, Dzulkefly Ahmad, stated that as of now, the government has borne approximately 150,892.11 Malaysian Ringgit (30,000 USD) in treatment costs for each patient hospitalized for 12 days due to Evali.

From 2019 to September 30, 2024, the Ministry of Health has reported a total of 41 cases of Evali. In addition, the National Poison Center has received a total of 111 accident notifications caused by e-cigarettes or e-cigarette liquids from 2015 to 2023.

The minister stated that the Public Health Tobacco Control Act 2024 will come into effect on October 1st, with the aim of curbing the use of e-cigarettes, especially among children and adolescents. The law not only aims to protect young people from the influence of e-cigarettes, but also seeks to reduce the government's future healthcare costs burden. The law imposes strict restrictions on the advertising, promotion, sponsorship, and sale of e-cigarette products to minors.

References:

[1] KKM tanggung RM150,000 rawat 1 pesakit Evali, kata Dzulkefly

Also Read:

[1] Malaysia approves 147 vape firms under new tobacco control law

[2] Malaysian PM reports more than $40 million in e-cigarette taxes collected in 3 years, revenue to fund government projects

[3] Malaysian Authorities Urged to Crack Down on E-Cigarette Sales

[4] Malaysia's Health Minister: No Need to Follow Foreign E-Cig Bans, Focus on Enforcing New Smoking Control Act

[5] Strengthening Enforcement of Smoke-Free Zones in Malaysia: Ministry of Health.

#Asia #Open system e-cigarettes #Regulation #Malaysia

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