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Expected modification set to include action against promoting E-cigarettes/Vaping devices In a recent step against cancer-causing substances, Tobacco Control Division of the Union Ministry
of Health and Family Welfare has circulated a notice to withdraw the amendments of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), Bill 2015 from the public domain for modification. The
new expected modified amendments will include action against promoting E-cigarettes/Vaping devices, which are being sold as substitutes to cigarettes but are more harmful. In the last few
years, vapes have gained popularity in India despite the continuing debate whether they are a safe alternative to reduce tobacco consumption. However, various studies reflect that
e-cigarettes/vapes will cause youth to start smoking conventional cigarettes within a year. "A new Bill will be introduced by incorporating provisions to counter illicit trade in
tobacco product and to effectively address emerging threats such as ENDS (EIectronic Nicotine Delivery System)" stated the notice. These vaping devices convert liquid nicotine into
vapour and do not have all the chemicals of traditional cigarettes, thus these are being promoted as alternatives, but are more harmful. A recent study done by researchers from the New York
University School of Medicine, suggests that vaping can also mutate DNA and thus increases the risk of cancer and heart diseases. The heat-up of nicotine solution during vaping converts it
into DNA-damaging chemical and thus can put one at greater risk of cancer. "People, who are addicted to traditional cigarettes even moderately, are taking high doses of vaping thinking
that it does not affect the system, but do not know that it can cause acute toxicity," says Dr SK Arora, Delhi State Tobacco Control Officer. "Tobacco takes years to show
side-effects, but these vapours can instantly get into the stream and can cause seizures and in worst cases lead to respiratory depression and death," he added. The New York University
study also suggests that although e-cigarette smoke has fewer carcinogens than tobacco smoke, e-cigarette smokers might have a higher risk than non-smokers of developing lung and bladder
cancers and heart diseases. HARMFUL EFFECTS * E-cigarette smokers might have a higher risk than non-smokers of developing lung and bladder cancers and heart diseases. * Vaping/E-cigarettes
can mutate DNA and thus puts one at greater risk of cancer * Unlike tobacco which takes years to show effects, vapours can instantly get into the stream and can cause seizures due to
acute toxicity * Some cases may lead to respiratory depression and death * Youth who get addicted to it run the risk of smoking conventional cigarettes with a year HOW THEY WORK *
Battery driven vaping devices heat liquid nicotine solution into vapours/aerosols which are inhaled. What goes into the mouths of inhalers and what comes out is a visible mist.