A few months ago, the health services of the United Kingdom hypothesized that electronic cigarettes are prescribed directly by the NHS. If on paper the idea may seem tempting, associations for the defense of vaping consider that such a decision would be counterproductive and could reduce the effectiveness of smoking cessation.
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For some time now the Public Health England (PHE) proposes that e-cigarettes can be prescribed by general practitioners and NHS (National Health Service). Considered as at least 95% less harmful than smoking, the English public health service considers that this option could make xNUMX 20 people a year of the classic cigarette.
But this proposal is clearly not convincing for several associations defending vaping which considers that giving the possibility to general practitioners to prescribe electronic cigarettes is likely to have a "negative effect" on the success of the product.
Fraser Cropper, President of theIndependent British Vape Trade Association, told the deputies: " We think it would be discouraging, if you give the responsibility to a general practitioner to prescribe the product, the vaping will no longer have the same commitment, the same interest. ".
« The choice of vaping products and all its variables are the key to its success "- John Dunne - Vaping Industry Association.
According to him, this could also have repercussions on the available choice: " This could potentially limit the range of products available »He adds.
To John Dunne, Director of Vaping Industry Association in the United Kingdom, the situation of smokers should not be mistaken: " Most smokers don't think of themselves as sick. Smoking is not a disease, it is addiction to a product »
« Smokers also like that e-cigarette is a consumer driven innovation, it is not seen as a drug, and I think pushing it in that direction
would have a detrimental effect. »He adds.
In his speech to MPs, however, John Dunne states: « The problem we have with prescribing is not that it is going to affect our economic sector but that it risks stemming the influence of vaping.«
He calls for the NHS to clarify the situation and send a clear message about the benefits of vaping. To see what decision will be made in a few weeks or months.
