Research proves that the product can work as an ally for public policies to reduce harm to smokers
Since its appearance on the market, electronic cigarettes have been the subject of several studies that evaluate the impacts of prolonged use on consumers’ health. Although it is still a sensitive topic in Brazil, since 2009, the list of countries that have regulated the product is growing and, based on studies, recognize it as an important instrument for policies to control tobacco use and reduce damage.
They already are, according to the (World Health Organization), including the United Kingdom, Canada, United States, Sweden, New Zealand, European Union countries, among others.
The option for regulation, however, was not without foundation. After all, all these nations made the decision supported by the results of extensive research carried out in different parts of the world.
For example, a recognized independent international public health network – based in the United Kingdom and scientists from all over the world, including Brazilians – published in September 2023 a review of 319 studies with more than 157 thousand individuals. The concluded that there is a high level of certainty that electronic cigarettes are associated with high rates of smoking cessation.
The Canadian Ministry of Health also reiterates the importance of electronic cigarettes in reducing risks. According to notes from the government agency, based on a compilation of studies, adults who use vaping have more than those who use nicotine replacement therapies or counseling.
“If you have tried Health Canada-approved methods of quitting smoking (e.g., approved nicotine replacement therapies) and still smoke cigarettes, vaping may help you quit smoking.”says . The text also explains that adult smokers, after switching to vaping, “immediately reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke.”.
England, in turn, was responsible for producing a robust and consistent scientific review on the topic. Researchers from developed a –commissioned by the British government health body– to review more than 400 research studies that deal with electronic cigarettes, in 2022. The conclusion is that electronic cigarettes have a 20 times smaller impact on the health of consumers than the conventional cigarette.
The , in a published in 2024, concludes that electronic cigarettes are an important tool for reducing tobacco use.
Such studies were essential to support the British government’s package of measures, which set the goal of having just . Among the measures announced is the donation of 1 million free electronic cigarette kits to adult smokers as an incentive for them to stop using tobacco products.
Currently, the United Kingdom is focusing on tobacco and vapes, with the aim of strengthening its regulation, which includes greater control over points of sale, banning flavors that appeal to children and young people – such as sweets and desserts –, limitations on product design, among other measures.
In Brazil, even though they were banned 15 years ago, electronic cigarettes have around 3 million adult consumers, according to (Intelligence in Research and Strategic Consultancy), in 2023. The number reveals the size of the market dominated only by illicit trade, which does not obeys any type of restriction. The scenario demonstrates the urgent need for regulation.
Clarification note
Vaporizers and heated tobacco products are intended for people over 18 years of age, just like cigarettes. These products are not without risks.
Reducing the risks of vaporizers and heated tobacco products is based on the most recent scientific evidence available and provided that traditional cigarette consumption is completely replaced.
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