Moldova Bans E-Cigarettes in Public Places
Moldova’s Health Minister, Alla Nemerenco, announced a comprehensive smoking ban in public places, including electronic cigarettes. The new legislation aims to reduce smoking rates and protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke exposure.
Nemerenco revealed that the ban will cover parks, terraces, and public transport stops. The restrictions apply to all types of cigarettes, including those with heated tobacco. She emphasized that electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products pose similar health risks to traditional cigarettes.
“It’s a misconception that e-cigarettes and heated tobacco are less harmful,” Nemerenco stated during a JurnalTV interview. She explained that e-cigarettes use vapor, which can transfer nicotine to the bronchi more easily, potentially increasing health risks.
The government will introduce a uniform no-smoking sign and plans to ban flavored cigarette sales from 2026. These steps address the rising use of electronic cigarettes among Moldovan youth. Recent data shows that about 13% of teenagers aged 13 to 15 have used electronic cigarettes with heated tobacco.
Nemerenco highlighted that the law prohibits doctors from promoting electronic cigarettes. Violating this rule could result in the loss of medical practice rights.
The bill has completed public consultations and now appears on the government’s agenda. While the exact implementation date remains unconfirmed, the government aims to roll out these changes soon to improve public health outcomes.
News source: МОЛДОВА ВВОДИТ ЗАПРЕТ НА КУРЕНИЕ В ОБЩЕСТВЕННЫХ МЕСТАХ, КОТОРЫЙ КАСАЕТСЯ И ЭЛЕКТРОННЫХ СИГАРЕТ
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