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Belgian High Health Council reports support for e-cigarettes as an alternative to smoking

Belgian High Health Council reports support for e-cigarettes as an alternative to smoking

2022-07-04

A new report published by the Belgian High Council of Health supports the use of e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to smoking or as a smoking cessation aid that can significantly reduce health risks.


Based on the current state of knowledge, the report concludes that ex-smokers' exclusive use of e-cigarettes -- provided they do quit smoking -- can significantly reduce health risks.


The report also noted that e-cigarettes are not without risks and are therefore not recommended for non-smokers, especially young people, and further long-term safety data are needed.


The committee prepares scientific advisory reports to guide political decision makers and health professionals in Belgium. The report, which took two years to prepare, is a consensus document prepared by experts with different views.


While restrictions on e-cigarettes are prudent, the report warns that restricting e-cigarette and other nicotine use will not jeopardize the goal of reducing smoking rates.


Advocates for tobacco harm reduction welcomed the report. "It is sensible that the guideline recommends risk-proportional regulation of e-cigarettes," Colin Mendelsohn, a medical professional and founding president of the Australian Tobacco Harm Reduction Association, wrote on his website. "E-cigarettes are much less harmful than smoking and should be more regulated based on lower risks."


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