ISLAMABAD: Though use of e-cigarettes has increased dramatically, it is equally hazardous.

This was stated at a seminar organised by the Human Development Foundation (HDF) the other day that aimed to address the growing issue of electronic cigarettes and vaping.

The speakers informed the audience that studies conducted in different countries had shown that electronic cigarettes had gained immense popularity and their use has increased dramatically, resulting in what was termed as the ‘E-Cigarette and Vaping Epidemic’.

Lack of research on the health hazards of e-cigarettes has led to nurturing the myth that e-cigarettes are less harmful than conventional cigarettes.

HDF Chief Executive Officer Azhar Saleem said the tobacco industry had been advertising e-cigarettes as an alternative for smoking. However, the current e-cigarette epidemic among youth falsified their claims of helping smokers quit by switching to e-cigarettes as a safer alternative.

“Several studies conducted in major cities of Pakistan have shown that the trend has been on a rise here as well, mainly in the educational institutes,” he said.

Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2019