“A considerable number of e-cigarette users have successfully minimized the harmful consequences of tobacco combustion. In April, a public hearing on ‘risk reduction and damage associated with addictive behaviors’ took place at the French Ministry of Health’s premises in Paris.
The event, organized by the French Federation of Addictology (FFA) and supported by the MILDECA (Interministerial Mission for the fight against drugs and addictive behaviors) and the national High Authority of Health (HAS), involved the participation of approximately thirty experts. The outcome of this two-day session was an official report prepared by the Hearing Committee responsible for providing recommendations.
Why not choose to tobacco combustion?
Recently published, the official report acknowledges the electronic cigarette as a ‘complementary tool for risk reduction’ that enables a significant number of users to effectively mitigate the harmful effects of combusted tobacco, which is the primary source of its toxicity. The report’s authors express their concerns regarding…”
The Committee has expressed concerns about the implementation of the Directive, stating that it will impede innovation and favor vapes marketed by the tobacco industry, as they are the only ones capable of meeting the administrative and financial requirements imposed by the Directive.
In terms of smoking, the commission board has recommended a change in approach. Instead of comparing electronic cigarettes to products that do not have the same status, the assessment should focus on their actual use. Appropriate regulations should be put in place to ensure safe usage, including providing nicotine dosages tailored to individual needs.
Furthermore, the experiences of vapers and vapers’ associations should be taken into consideration when formulating policies aimed at reducing tobacco-related risks and damages.
