A recent study conducted by the George Institute for Global Health has unveiled concerning statistics regarding e-cigarette advertising and its impact on public exposure. The study, which surveyed approximately 1000 people in India, China, Australia, and the UK, within the age group of 15-30 years, sheds light on the prevalent exposure to e-cigarette promotions through various media channels.
Shocking figures reveal that a staggering 85% of respondents, especially among the young adult demographic, reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising through television, print, radio, and social media. This revelation comes in stark contrast to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), which advises the prohibition of all forms of e-cigarette advertising, promotion, and sponsorship.
The survey further indicates that social media platforms, vape shops, supermarkets, petrol stations, and other retail establishments are significant hubs for e-cigarette advertising. The average number of media types to which respondents were exposed stood at 5, underlining the extensive reach of these advertisements.
Simone Pettigrew, associated with The George Institute for Global Health, stressed the need for urgent attention in addressing these forms of exposure due to their potential link with e-cigarette usage.
The increased use of e-cigarettes among children, adolescents, and young adults has raised substantial public health concerns. While e-cigarettes are considered less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they contain ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deeply into the lungs, potentially harming lung health and interfering with the brain development of young individuals.
Researchers involved in the study argue that exposure to e-cigarette advertising can alter people’s perception of the associated risks, fueling interest and increasing the likelihood of usage.
Notably, India has imposed strict regulations on e-cigarettes. The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) 2019 bans their production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement in any form or quantity. However, recent data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reveals a significant surge in e-cigarette users in India in 2023, with over 100,000 users compared to approximately 10,000 in 2019. This surge, particularly prevalent among young people and adults under the age of 30, raises questions about the effectiveness of these regulatory measures.
