E-Cigarettes: ‘tumour promoter’, can cause neurodegeneration and damage to foetus

 New Delhi: E-cigarettes too are dangerous for health as a ‘tumour promoter’ and can have adverse effects on the development of the foetus during pregnancy’.

“As per a report prepared by WHO, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) (also known as e-cigarettes) emits nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco products,” Minister of State, Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel said on Tuesday.

Patel stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha: In addition to dependence, nicotine can have adverse effects on the development of the foetus during pregnancy and may contribute to cardiovascular disease. The WHO report further says that although nicotine itself is not a carcinogen, it may function as a “tumour promoter” and seems to be involved in the biology of malignant disease, as well as of neurodegeneration.

“Foetal and adolescent nicotine exposure may have long-term consequences for brain development, potentially leading to learning and anxiety disorders,” she said.

“The evidence is sufficient to warn children and adolescents, pregnant women, and women of reproductive age against ENDS use and nicotine,” Patel said.