KUALA LUMPUR, March 7 —
The study, conducted by the French government’s health risk assessment agency ANSES, analysed hundreds of scientific papers on electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. The research reviewed data from thousands of users and examined the chemicals produced by vaping as well as the long-term health effects associated with the practice.
French Study Highlights Reduced Exposure to Harmful Substances
According to the findings, vaping significantly reduces exposure to many of the toxic and cancer-causing substances commonly found in cigarette smoke. Researchers explained that the main reason for this reduction is the absence of combustion in vaping devices, which prevents the production of many harmful chemicals generated when tobacco is burned.
However, the study also emphasised that vaping is not completely risk-free. While the health risks appear to be lower than traditional smoking, experts caution that long-term effects are still being studied and that vaping products should be regulated carefully.
The significance of the French review lies in the credibility of the organisation conducting it. ANSES is a government agency responsible for evaluating health risks related to food, environmental exposure, and workplace safety, and its recommendations are often used to guide public health policies.
Malaysia has been considering stricter regulations and potential bans on vaping products as part of broader efforts to curb smoking and protect public health. Authorities have indicated that enforcement could begin with restrictions on certain types of devices, including open-system vapes, which have raised concerns due to potential misuse and the presence of unregulated substances.
The government’s approach is driven by concerns about rising vape use among young people and the potential health risks associated with nicotine addiction and unknown chemicals in vape liquids.
Harm Reduction vs Total Prohibition
The debate surrounding vaping policies often centres on the concept of harm reduction. Some public health experts argue that for adult smokers who are unable to quit nicotine completely, switching from traditional cigarettes to vaping may significantly reduce exposure to harmful substances.
Supporters of this approach believe that eliminating vaping products entirely could unintentionally push some former smokers back to conventional cigarettes, which remain far more harmful to health.
Concerns Over Black Market Risks
Another issue highlighted by policy analysts is the potential emergence of illicit markets if vaping products are banned outright. Experts warn that a prohibition could drive demand underground, leading to the circulation of unregulated vape liquids that may contain dangerous or unknown substances.
Malaysia already faces challenges related to illicit cigarette trade, and some analysts caution that similar issues could arise in the vaping market if strict bans are implemented without strong enforcement mechanisms.
Policy Decisions Should Be Evidence-Based
Ultimately, experts stress that decisions about vaping policies should be based on comprehensive scientific evidence and balanced public health strategies. While protecting youth from nicotine addiction remains a key priority, policymakers must also consider the broader implications for adult smokers, public safety, and market regulation.
As Malaysia continues to evaluate its vaping policies, the findings from international studies such as the French review could play an important role in shaping the country’s approach to regulating emerging nicotine products.
