E-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to smoking, experts warn
Experts have debunked the notion that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to traditional smoking, particularly among young people. Professor Dr. Mohit Kamal, former director of the National Institute of Mental Health, stated during a drug abuse prevention seminar organized by Prothom Alo Trust on May 20, 2026, that the idea of e-cigarettes being a safe substitute is a harmful misconception. Initially promoted as a tool for smokers to quit, e-cigarettes are now leading to dual addiction, where users become dependent on both traditional and electronic forms. The vapor produced by heating chemicals like nicotine, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin directly harms the lungs. Furthermore, the presence of heavy metals such as nickel, lead, and chromium in e-cigarettes significantly increases the risk of cancer. Therefore, e-cigarettes cannot be considered safe.
The widespread adoption of e-cigarettes, especially among younger demographics, highlights a critical public health challenge. While marketed as a harm reduction strategy, evidence suggests a potential for increased nicotine dependence and exposure to harmful chemicals. This situation underscores the importance of robust regulatory frameworks that scrutinize product safety claims and marketing practices. Future policy considerations should focus on evidence-based interventions for smoking cessation and addiction management, ensuring that the long-term health implications of emerging nicotine products are thoroughly evaluated and communicated to the public.
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