Daily Current Affairs : 16-December-2023

E-cigarettes, short for electronic cigarettes, have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. These battery-powered devices are designed to heat a liquid into an inhalable aerosol, commonly known as vapor. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) cautions against considering e-cigarettes as effective tools for quitting tobacco at the population level.

What Are E-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes, also referred to as vape pens, vapes, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems (ENNDS), operate by heating a liquid mixture. This mixture typically includes nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, and various other chemicals. The resulting aerosol is then inhaled by the user.

Concerns Surrounding E-cigarettes
  1. Addictive Nature: One primary concern is the addictive nature of nicotine, a key component in e-cigarette liquids. Nicotine, a plant alkaloid found in tobacco and synthesized, acts as both a sedative and stimulant.
  2. Health Risks: E-cigarettes pose significant health risks, with potential long-term effects. The aerosols produced may contain metals such as lead, chromium, and nickel, as well as chemicals like formaldehyde. These substances are associated with an increased risk of cancer, heart disorders, and lung diseases.
  3. Youth Usage: Disturbingly, children aged 13–15 are using e-cigarettes at higher rates than adults, and rates among 16–19-year-olds have doubled from 2017 to 2022.
Nicotine Content and Regulation in India
  1. Nicotine Levels: E-cigarettes can contain nicotine in concentrations up to 36 mg/mL, significantly higher than the 1.2 to 1.4 mg/mL found in regular cigarettes.
  2. Regulatory Measures in India: In response to the growing concerns, India enacted the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) in 2019. This legislation comprehensively prohibits the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes.
Important Points:
  • E-cigarettes Overview:
    • Battery-powered devices producing inhalable aerosol
    • Liquid composition includes nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, and other chemicals
    • Commonly known as vape pens, vapes, ENDS, and ENNDS
  • Concerns:
    • Addiction and Health Risks:
      • Nicotine, an addictive plant alkaloid, present in e-cigarettes
      • Highly addictive, with potential long-term health effects
      • Aerosols may contain harmful substances linked to cancer, heart, and lung disorders
    • Youth Usage:
      • Alarming rates of e-cigarette use among children aged 13–15
      • Rates among 16–19-year-olds doubled from 2017 to 2022
  • Nicotine Content and Regulation in India:
    • Nicotine levels in e-cigarettes much higher (up to 36 mg/mL) than in regular cigarettes
    • In India, regulated by the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) 2019
      • Prohibits production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes
Why In News

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that e-cigarettes, as consumer products, have not been proven effective for quitting tobacco use at the population level; however, it acknowledges that individual experiences may vary, and further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks associated with their use.

MCQs about E-cigarettes

  1. E-cigarettes primarily contain which addictive component?
    A. A sedative effect
    B. An addictive nature
    C. A calming sensation
    D. A stimulant impact
    Correct Answer: B. An addictive nature
    Explanation: Nicotine, a key component in e-cigarettes, is known for its addictive properties.
  2. In which age group has e-cigarette usage doubled from 2017 to 2022?
    A. 20–25 years old
    B. 13–15 years old
    C. 30–35 years old
    D. 16–19 years old
    Correct Answer: D. 16–19 years old
    Explanation: Rates of e-cigarette use in this age group have doubled over the mentioned period.
  3. What is the primary objective of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) 2019 in India?
    A. Encouraging e-cigarette production
    B. Regulating e-cigarette advertisements
    C. Prohibiting various aspects of e-cigarette activities
    D. Promoting e-cigarette exports
    Correct Answer: C. Prohibiting various aspects of e-cigarette activities
    Explanation: PECA comprehensively restricts production, sale, distribution, and more.
  4. How do nicotine levels in e-cigarettes compare to regular cigarettes?
    A. Nicotine levels are similar
    B. Nicotine levels in e-cigarettes are lower
    C. Nicotine levels in e-cigarettes are higher
    D. E-cigarettes are nicotine-free
    Correct Answer: C. Nicotine levels in e-cigarettes are higher
    Explanation: E-cigarettes have higher nicotine concentrations than regular cigarettes.

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