In recent years, the Philippines has experienced a disturbing surge in the use of vape and other tobacco-related products among the youth, giving rise to what is now termed the ‘vapedemic.’ Senator Pia Cayetano’s speech in the Senate last week brought attention to the deficiencies in the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Vaporized Nicotine Products Regulation Act (RA 11900), urging urgent action to address the health concerns surrounding tobacco and vape use, particularly among young people.
The Vape Law, designed to regulate vaping product consumption, has faced criticism for legitimizing these products and lowering the age of access from 21 to 18. This regulatory gap has allowed the tobacco industry to exploit the vulnerability of the youth, enticing them with various flavors and easy access to these products. Despite existing regulations, the Institute for Global Tobacco Control (IGTC) reported ongoing sales and advertising of tobacco products near schools, highlighting the industry’s persistent efforts to attract children and young individuals.
Senator Joel Villanueva’s revelation about a 16-year-old girl being intubated at the Lung Center of the Philippines due to excessive vaping within six months underscores the immediate health risks associated with these products. The ease with which underage children access and use vape products emphasizes the need to revisit and strengthen existing regulations.
The Philippines’ recognition as a five-time recipient of the Dirty Ashtray Award from the Global Alliance for Tobacco Control reflects not only on the national reputation but also serves as a call to action. Senator Cayetano’s proposal to shift regulatory powers from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a crucial step. The FDA’s role in regulating products affecting public health is vital and should not be compromised.
Senate President Migz Zubiri and other senators underscored the necessity for a unified effort to address the vapedemic, especially considering the daily average of deaths due to tobacco smoking. According to Senator Cayetano, tobacco smoking poses the highest risk, contributing to the majority of combined deaths and disabilities in 2019, surpassing obesity and other health conditions.
The presented statistics reveal the severe impact of tobacco smoking on public health in the Philippines, with over 112,000 deaths attributed to smoking alone, constituting 27% of all deaths. Of these, 85% were linked to active smoking, and 19% were attributed to second-hand smoke.
The alarming numbers necessitate immediate and concerted efforts to combat the vapedemic and safeguard the population’s well-being.
