Dentists Calling for Stricter E-Cigarette Regulations in Thailand

Thailand: Dentists working at the forefront of oral healthcare are highlighting the importance of enforcing laws in Thailand related to e-cigarettes and advocating for stricter regulations to prevent new smokers from starting. Some dentists are reportedly claiming that one vape is equivalent to smoking four traditional cigarettes. 

According to Dr Adirek Sivitanawong, the manager of the Anti-Tobacco Dentist Network, dentists are often the first to observe oral signs that indicate potential cancer caused by smoking. Their proactive role in identifying these warning signs has helped thousands of people quit smoking and has aided in the early detection of diseases, potentially saving lives.

“Dentists have helped thousands of people quit smoking and have aided those with signs of disease and a potential risk of oral cancer. Those who quit smoking have improved lives and brought happiness back to their families,” says Dr Adirek.

Dental Students Advocate Stricter E-Cigarette Policies

Dr Natthawut Kaewsutta, chairman of Sub-Project 4 at the Tobacco-Free Education Institute, highlights the active role of dental students in shaping e-cigarette policies. Dental students engaged with representatives of politicians, mass media, children, and youth to gather opinions on e-cigarette regulations through a survey. 

These insights were presented in a short documentary titled “CHOOSE,” with the aim of encouraging individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Many dental students expressed their concerns through open letters to the new government, urging them to prioritize public health, particularly in safeguarding the well-being of children and the general population.

Kanticha Chummam, known as “Ticha The Face,” an actress and influencer, also emphasized the importance of targeted communication campaigns to educate children and youth about the harmful effects of smoking. She underscores the need for providing accurate information regarding the hazards of e-cigarettes through various channels to raise awareness effectively.

Study: Vaping leads to dental decay

Differing Opinions from Celebrities and Netizens

However, these claims from the dental network that vaping is more harmful than traditional cigarettes have sparked debates among celebrities and netizens. Prominent figures such as Pok Laai Jood and Dr Ekkapob Phianphiset have raised doubts about these claims and questioned the source of the information, leading to discussions on social media platforms. 

Some netizens have suggested that the government should regulate e-cigarettes promptly to control standards, implement taxation, and prevent access by children and adolescents. Discrepancies between research conducted in Thailand and other countries have also been highlighted, with users on Twitter speculating about a possible global conspiracy to impose regulations on e-cigarette users.

International Views on Vaping 

While different health organizations worldwide have conducted studies and research on the risks associated with vaping compared to traditional smoking, there are varying opinions. The British Office for Health Improvement and Disparities reported that e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes, and the Minister of Health of New Zealand has publicly supported a switch to e-cigarettes as a means to reduce health risks.

In Thailand, various anti-smoking groups are closely monitoring the situation, particularly after the formation of the new government following the 2022 elections. The policy declared by the Progressive Party, the current leading party in the government, reportedly indicates an inclination toward adopting internationally aligned approaches that consider the impacts on all sectors. 

This comprehensive approach includes considering health consequences, tax revenues, prevention of access by youth, access to less harmful products, and the regulation and quality control of products to ensure their safety.