By : Imtisal Bukhari
Islamabad: The Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) has called for a complete ban on vapes, e-cigarettes and shisha, warning that these products pose a growing threat to the health of young people across the country.
Speaking on the issue, PANAH Secretary General Sanaullah Ghuman said emerging tobacco products are increasingly being marketed in ways that appeal to children and adolescents, including flavored variants, attractive packaging, and social media promotion. He cautioned that portraying such products as safe alternatives to smoking is misleading.
The vape health risks in youth discussion has gained renewed attention amid concerns that these products are contributing to rising nicotine use among teenagers. Ghuman said the tobacco industry is deliberately targeting younger populations to build long-term dependency.
He added that chemicals found in vaping and e-cigarette products may be as harmful as, or in some cases more harmful than, traditional cigarettes. According to him, their use is linked to serious health conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, lung disorders, and cancer.
WHO concerns and policy debate
Ghuman referenced concerns raised by the World Health Organization (WHO), which has warned that flavored vaping products can act as a gateway to nicotine addiction among young users. Flavors such as mint, chocolate, and fruit, he said, are particularly attractive to minors.
He noted that discussions are ongoing in the Senate regarding possible regulatory measures, but PANAH supports a full ban rather than partial regulation. The organization has also urged authorities to crack down on illegal imports and sales of such products.
According to Ghuman, several countries have already imposed bans on vaping products, and Pakistan should follow similar measures to protect public health and reduce the long-term burden of tobacco-related diseases.
He further urged parents, teachers, and civil society to increase awareness among young people about the risks associated with vaping and related products.
Also Read :Government Measures Against Vape Pods: A Step Toward a Safer Future for Youth
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