GHPI supports vape import restrictions, calls for evidence-based implementation, stronger enforcement

The Guyana Health Policy Institute (GHPI) welcomes President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s announcement of forthcoming restrictions on the importation of vapes and vaping products into Guyana. We regard this as an important public-health intervention in response to growing concerns about the accessibility and use of these products among children, adolescents and young adults. Protecting the health and development of our young people must take precedence over the commercial interests associated with products that can expose users to nicotine dependence and potentially harmful substances.

The Institute recognises the growing concern expressed by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana, and the Association for Democracy and Human Rights (Guyana) Inc. Their support reflects an important convergence of business, religious, civic and public-health interests around the need to protect children and young people. We encourage continued cooperation among Government, the private sector, educators, parents, healthcare professionals and community organisations to ensure that this intervention achieves its intended objectives.

From a scientific perspective, there are compelling grounds for precautionary action. Nicotine is highly addictive and can adversely affect the developing adolescent brain, including functions associated with attention, learning and impulse control. Vaping aerosols are not simply harmless water vapour; depending on the product, they can contain fine particles, irritating chemicals, metals and other potentially harmful substances. The composition and quality of products circulating through poorly regulated markets may be uncertain, further complicating the assessment of risk. Although the long-term effects of vaping are still being studied, uncertainty about the full extent of harm should not be confused with evidence of safety. The World Health Organization has repeatedly raised concerns about the health risks associated with electronic nicotine delivery systems, particularly for young people and non-smokers.