The World Health Organization (WHO) has thrown its formidable weight behind Thailand’s unwavering stance on banning the import and sale of e-cigarettes, a move that has sparked both interest and approval across the health community. At the helm of this initiative is the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), which is spearheading efforts to curb the enticing whirl of vaping among the nation’s youth with a bold “denormalisation” strategy. The WHO Thailand senior public health specialist, Dr. Olivia Nieveras, has made it clear: this ban is not a mere whim. It is deeply rooted in empirical evidence underscoring the potential hazards of vaping products and is closely tied to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), an agreement Thailand has honored since 2003. In her call to action, Dr. Nieveras champions adherence to Article 5.3 of the FCTC, safeguarding society from the tobacco industry’s self-serving commercial interests.
World No Tobacco Day, celebrated annually on May 31, set the stage with a compelling theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.” According to WHO, this campaign underscores the devious allure crafted by tobacco and nicotine industries, painting their perilous products in a dangerously appealing light.
Dr. Nieveras voiced her insights during an engaging briefing orchestrated by ThaiHealth and the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre (TRC) at the vibrant gathering of the 23rd National Health and Cigarette Control Forum in bustling Bangkok. Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASHF) president, Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit, acknowledged a complex conundrum: the influence wielded by businesses and political entities selling vapes can muddle the efforts of nations trying to toe the Article 5.3 line. WHO has astutely advised these nations to firmly exclude cigarette company representatives from participating in bodies like the E-Cigarette Control Policy Board.
Dr. Prakit beamed with pride as he recounted ASHF’s and anti-tobacco networks’ remarkable triumph over the past 32 years—a whopping 49% decline in smoking rates across Thailand. Yet, despite these commendable advances, an estimated 9.8 million smokers persist, with innumerable young souls still exploring the path to tobacco.
ThaiHealth manager, Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, animatedly disclosed an alarming trend—e-cigarette manufacturers have cunningly tweaked their marketing playbook, glorifying e-cigarettes as the seemingly safer, more acceptable counterpart to traditional tobacco products. These tactics cleverly ensnare a younger demographic, teetering on the brink of beginning a nicotine-laden journey.
A landmark survey conducted by ThaiHealth, in collaboration with the Office of the Basic Education Commission and the Equitable Education Fund (EEF), shed a stark light on the issue. In a sweeping analysis of 124,606 students spanning 1,699 elementary and secondary schools nationwide, a hefty 25% admitted to dabbling in e-cigarettes, 22% acknowledged friends who vaped, and a significant 20% lived amidst communities where vaping is a normalized pastime, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
Dr. Pongthep wisely noted that e-cigarette exposure often intertwines with a person’s social environment. In proactive response, ThaiHealth has mounted an e-cigarette “denormalisation” initiative. The spirited campaign endeavors to arm young minds with factual e-cigarette information, aiming to pivot the mindset from “cannot smoke” to the transformative “don’t want to smoke.”
As Thailand staunchly forges ahead with its anti-vaping crusade, the resolve to safeguard its youth from the siren call of e-cigarettes symbolizes a societal commitment to health and well-being, unmasking the alluring veil of perceived harm reduction. It’s a dynamic chapter in the nation’s tireless quest for a smoke-free future, set against a backdrop of sweeping change and resilient progress.
Finally! Someone is standing up to the big tobacco lobby. Vaping isn’t as safe as they make it out to be.
But isn’t the alternative worse? Smoking regular cigarettes is proven to be more harmful.
Sure, but vaping is often marketed to kids. They start vaping thinking it’s safe, then transition to smoking.
I agree, Emily. My own research shows that vaping nicotine can be just as addictive.
Exactly. People wouldn’t invite a wolf into their home and expect a friendly guest!
I think this is just more government overreach. Let people live their lives the way they want to.
Banning things rarely works. Education is better. People should be aware of the risks without government interference.
Education alone isn’t enough when the industry targets young, impressionable minds.
But banning gives it a forbidden allure, which can actually increase interest!
Totally agree, Jessica. Remember prohibition? It was a disaster.
Before backing such a blanket ban, I’d like to see more evidence about its effectiveness in reducing smoking rates.
Dr. Nieveras is doing a great job. Discouraging the normalization of vaping is essential for protecting kids.
But should we sacrifice adult autonomy for the sake of protecting children?
Kids are more impressionable. We can educate adults but protect the minors.
But is vaping really a gateway, or are we just overreacting?
Studies show a large overlap between teen vaping and future smoking habits.
I think Thailand is being incredibly brave. The Big Tobacco giants are intimidating, but health matters more.
Imagine if every country took Thailand’s approach! The tobacco industry would be shaking in its boots.
Are you sure that’s a good thing? Jobs depend on tobacco sales!
But is addiction a price worth paying for employment? There are healthier industries to promote!
This is a nanny state move. I don’t need the government telling me I can’t vape.
This whole effort seems like fear-mongering to me. If they want to ban vaping, why not alcohol or fast food too?
To all the naysayers: Public health should come first. Would you rather have more lung disease and cancers?
Even if they ban it, people will find a way to get their hands on e-cigs.
From a medical standpoint, discouraging nicotine uptake among the youth is crucial. It’s already a big issue.
But how do we draw the line between policy and personal freedom?
It’s tough, I admit, but preventive health sometimes requires unpopular measures.