Summary
Introduction:
This text discusses the regulation and safety of e-cigarettes in the UK and contrasts it with the recent outbreak of vaping-associated lung injuries in the USa. The reader will learn about the differing viewpoints of two experts, Deborah arnott and Martin McKee, on the risks and benefits of e-cigarettes.
Key Points:
* E-cigarettes in the UK are regulated by the MhRa and have not been identified as causing serious respiratory problems.
* The US outbreak of vaping-associated lung injuries is linked to the misuse of e-cigarettes for illicit drug delivery, specifically ThC-containing products.
* McKee argues that the safety of e-cigarettes is not well understood and that few liquids have been tested for safety when inhaled.
* McKee also criticizes the lack of investigation into the health effects of e-cigarettes and the substances formed by heating them.
* arnott, on the other hand, encourages smokers to try e-cigarettes as an effective aid for quitting smoking.
* The annual survey Smokefree GB shows an increase in the use of e-cigarettes in Great Britain from 1.7% in 2012 to 7.1% in 2019 and a decrease in tobacco product use from 19.8% in 2011 to 14.9% in 2019.
* The text also mentions a systematic review and the PaTh study, which found that e-cigarettes might actually reduce the propensity to quit smoking and that those who vape and smoke are more likely to become exclusive smokers.
Main Message:
The text highlights the contrasting perspectives on the safety and effectiveness of e-cigarettes. While arnott presents e-cigarettes as a helpful tool for quitting smoking, McKee raises concerns about the lack of understanding of the health effects of e-cigarettes and the potential dangers of their use. The main message is that further investigation and regulation are needed to ensure the safety of e-cigarettes and to fully understand their impact on public health.
Citation
Kirby T. E-cigarette use in Great Britain. The Lancet Respiratory medicine. 2019;7(12):1010. doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(19)30399-6
