WHO Warns: E-Cigarettes ’Undoubtedly Harmful’, Not Recommended for Quitting Smoking

Although their devices expose the user to fewer toxic substances than combustible cigarettes, they also present "health risks," the WHO report, relayed by Le Figaro, asserts. It has also assessed the results of government measures (MPOWER) recommended by the institution’s Framework Convention to curb the epidemic (FCTC).

"Although the level of risk associated with ENDS (electronic nicotine delivery systems) has not been conclusively measured, ENDS are undoubtedly harmful and should therefore be regulated," the WHO said, noting that there is no evidence showing the effectiveness of e-cigarettes for people wishing to turn their backs on the consumption of combustible cigarettes.

In addition, the Report states: "In most countries where they are available, users (of e-cigarettes) generally continue to smoke combustible cigarettes at the same time, which presents very little, if any, impact" on reducing health risks.

As for the misinformation disseminated about vaping, the WHO explains that it constitutes a "current and real threat". In addition, it issues warnings to the tobacco industry.

Fortunately, there are cities and countries that are already fighting against the use of e-cigarettes. This is the case of San Francisco, which is the first American city to ban the sale of electronic cigarettes on its territory, since the end of June.

According to the same source, in Asia, China, which has the largest number of smokers in the world, intends to tighten its regulations in this area.