HEART GROUP CALLS ON FDA TO REGULATE E-CIGARETTES

Electronic cigarettes need to be strongly regulated – and quickly – to prevent another generation of young people from becoming addicted to nicotine, according to the American Heart Association’s first policy statement on the products.

In its statement, the heart association pointed to studies suggesting that e-cigarettes, which contain nicotine but no tobacco, could serve as a “gateway” drug to addict young people, who may go on to regular cigarettes or smokeless tobacco. The association pointed to flavors in e-cigarettes, such as bubble gum, arguing that these are intended to attract kids. “We are fiercely committed to preventing the tobacco industry from addicting another generation of smokers,” said Nancy Brown, CEO of the heart association, in a statement.

An April proposal from the Food and Drug Administration would require most e-cigarettes to undergo an agency review. The proposed rules would ban sales of e-cigarettes to minors and require warning labels.

About 24 million young people have seen e-cigarette marketing, according to a recent paper in the journal Pediatrics.

Cynthia Cabrera, executive director of the Smoke-Free Alternatives Trade Association, which represents e-cigarette makers, distributors and retailers, says ecigarettes can reduce the harm from tobacco by helping people quit or smoke less.