In 2023, Vietnam faced a rise in hospitalizations due to the use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. Over 1,200 individuals were admitted for treatment, including 27 children under 16 years old and 44 cases from the 16-18 age group. The data was shared by Mr. Luong Ngoc Khue, Director of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment Management during an information session organized by the Ministry of Health.
An investigation conducted in 11 provinces and cities revealed an alarming increase in e-cigarette usage among young students. The percentage of e-cigarette use among 13-17 year olds surged from 2.6% in 2019 to 8.1% in 2023, with more than double increase among 13-15 year olds, jumping from 3.5% in 2022 to 8%. Female adolescents aged between 11-18 also showed a significant increase in e-cigarette use to about 4.3% in the same year.
During the information session, Mr. Khue emphasized on the health and economic burden associated with smoking traditional cigarettes and warned that new nicotine-based products could lead to addiction and more users over time. Dr. Nguyen Trung Nguyen, Director of the Poison Control Center at Bach Mai Hospital highlighted the dangers of new electronic and heated cigarettes that contain harmful chemicals and flavorings not found in regular cigarettes, making them potentially more addictive and harmful to users.
The Ministry of Health is taking a firm stance against new generation cigarettes and is advocating for a complete ban on the production, sales, import, and advertising of electronic cigarettes, heated cigarettes, and other emerging tobacco products. The Ministry is also looking into amending the Law on Tobacco Control to incorporate these regulations to address the rise of e-cigarette usage, particularly among young people.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s surge in hospitalizations due to e-cigarette usage highlights the need for stronger regulations against new nicotine-based products that are becoming increasingly popular among young people. It’s crucial that governments take action now before it’s too late to prevent further harm caused by these dangerous products.
