THE Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday again called on users of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products, especially pregnant women and young adults, to immediately stop and refrain from vaping.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a new tool to be used immediately for reporting of acutely ill patients who have used electronic cigarettes in the last 90 days, with no other plausible causes for illness.
In response to the epidemic in the United States, the WHO introduced International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 10 code U07.0, an international tool for classifying and monitoring diseases.
Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said the DOH together with the WHO and medical societies, warned the public on the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
“Electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products are sold in the market as alternatives for smokers trying to wean themselves off tobacco. Some studies claim that they contain fewer toxic chemicals and are less harmful alternatives to cigarettes,” said Duque.
“We do not support their claim of reduced harm. These products endanger the health of both users and nonusers, and are clearly not meant for children,” he added.
An increase in vaping-related illnesses in the US has been reported in recent months, mostly afflicting otherwise healthy young people.
Certain vape product makers said the illnesses and deaths were traced to the illegal use of harmful chemicals with their products, and therefore such wrong practice should not be blamed on them.
With 1,299 cases and 26 deaths reported, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the US Food and Drug Administration are currently investigating the reports.
In support of WHO’s efforts, the DOH urged all government and private hospitals, clinics and other health facilities to use proper codes for designating vaping-related disorders to allow existing health information systems to capture data on vaping-related disorders.
Information on the potential harm of novel and emerging nicotine products can guide future policy directions for electronic cigarettes.
All health and allied health professionals were urged to be vigilant in identifying risks during routine clinical evaluations by taking the history of tobacco use and use of e-cigarettes or vapes in all patients.
DOH also called on the medical community, parents and teachers to help address the widespread use of electronic cigarettes, particularly among the youth and young adults.
“People who have recently used e-cigarettes or other vaping products should immediately seek medical attention if they develop respiratory symptoms,” said Duque.