MoPH Warns Against E-Cigarettes in Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Qatar has issued a stern warning against the use of e-cigarettes, emphasizing the substantial health risks associated with their consumption. In a video message, the Ministry urged the public to “Think before you vape” and “Know the hidden dangers of e-cigarettes.”
Under Qatari law, the sale, distribution, and advertising of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited. Despite this, data suggests that around 11% of tobacco users in Qatar use electronic cigarettes. Globally, more than 37 million young people smoke e-cigarettes.
The Ministry highlighted the presence of toxic chemicals in e-cigarettes and called on individuals to stop using these devices. The warning encompassed various electronic smoking devices, including vapes, vape pens, e-cigarettes, and e-shisha. These products can lead to serious health risks, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, gum, mouth, and throat sores, nicotine addiction, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The MoPH emphasized that smoking doubles an individual’s risk of developing coronary heart disease and significantly increases the likelihood of long-term lung diseases like COPD. Furthermore, smoking is responsible for nearly 90% of lung cancer cases.
This warning is part of the health authorities’ ongoing efforts to curb e-cigarette use in Qatar. The MoPH has consistently maintained that vaping is not a recognized method for quitting smoking, lacks scientific backing, and is not endorsed as a smoking cessation aid by the US Food and Drug Administration.
Qatar has implemented comprehensive tobacco control measures, including smoking bans in public places, both indoor and certain outdoor areas. The country has also enforced strict regulations on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship to reduce tobacco consumption and prevent smoking uptake among youth.
Public awareness campaigns regularly highlight the health risks associated with smoking and advocate for smoke-free environments. Additionally, the healthcare system in Qatar offers resources for smoking cessation, such as counseling services and nicotine replacement therapies, to support individuals in their efforts to quit smoking. Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) provide smoking cessation services across 15 health centers and the Tobacco Control Center at HMC.
Source: MoPH warns against e-cigarettes, highlighting significant health risks
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