Nationals’ Vaping Policy Under Fire
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has accused David Littleproud and the Nationals of favouring tobacco industry advice over health professionals in the debate on vaping regulations. With an important parliamentary vote on the government’s anti-vaping measures imminent, AMA President Prof Steve Robson has condemned the Nationals’ proposal to regulate vapes in the same way as cigarettes, calling it a “tax grab” that neglects Australian health.
Health Risks and Chemical Concerns
In a forthright letter to Littleproud, Robson underscored the dangers associated with nicotine vapes, which can include harmful substances like acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, benzene, and heavy metals such as nickel and lead—many of which are known carcinogens. It is important to note that these dangerous chemicals are mainly found in illicit or disposable vapes, not in licensed e-liquids from regulated manufacturers.
Robson stressed that delaying action until more evidence emerges would result in significant public health risks, effectively benefitting the vaping and tobacco industries.
Nationals’ Position and Legislative Proposals
David Littleproud responded by acknowledging the health risks of nicotine but criticised the AMA for lacking expertise in regulation and border control. The proposed government legislation seeks to prohibit the domestic production, advertisement, supply, and commercial possession of non-therapeutic vapes, making them available only through a doctor’s prescription as a smoking cessation tool. This follows previous legislation that banned the importation of vapes and increased enforcement activities.
However, the Nationals, spearheaded by MP Pat Conaghan, oppose these restrictions. Conaghan’s policy includes regulating vape sales through specialist stores and implementing age restrictions.
Diverse Views on Vaping Regulation
Greens leader Adam Bandt also expressed scepticism about a prohibition model, advocating instead for harm minimisation. This approach aligns with the broader public health objective of reducing the negative impacts of vaping, particularly among young people.
Robson voiced the AMA’s frustration with the Nationals’ stance, emphasising the harmful effects of nicotine on young brains, including impaired cognitive function and mood disorders. He reaffirmed the medical profession’s role in providing trustworthy public health guidance.
In response to requests for comments, Littleproud reiterated the Nationals’ stance on stricter regulation rather than prohibition of vape sales.
Key Points:
– AMA accuses Nationals of prioritising tobacco industry advice over health experts.
– Proposed legislation aims to ban non-therapeutic vapes, making them available only by prescription.
– Nationals advocate for regulating vapes similarly to cigarettes.
– Concerns raised about harmful chemicals in illegal vapes.
– Greens support harm minimisation over prohibition.
Additional Resource:
Doctors Warn Banning Vapes May Push Youth to Cigarettes: Watch the video here:
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