In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has affirmed the authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate tobacco products. This includes heated and novel products like vapes. The decision has been hailed a victory for public health, particularly for its potential to mitigate the harmful effects of tobacco consumption in the Philippines.
The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) has urged newly appointed Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad to reinstate vape liquids containing nicotine to the Poisons List and to advance the Generational End Game (GEG) policy. The GEG policy aims to prohibit the sale and use of all smoking materials, including electronic cigarettes or vaping products, to individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. MPS praised Dzulkefly’s return, noting his previous focus on health promotion and preventive healthcare.
The Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control saw an increase in nicotine poisoning among teenagers due to the use of e-cigarettes and vapes. E-cigarettes are being abused by children, teens and young adults and cases of nicotine poisoning seem to be increasing among teenagers and adults as well.
The recently launched “Biyaheng Kalusugan: Mental Health Caravan” at Sorsogon State University, Sorsogon City, represents a significant step forward in prioritising mental health on a national scale.
As we celebrate World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) today on 31 May 2023, the focus is shifting towards an unusual, yet urgent theme – “We need food, not tobacco”.
