Romanian Pulmonologists, Cardiologists: Tobacco Studies on E-Cigs Mislead

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In response to recent media appearances in Romania, the Romanian Society of Pulmonology and the Romanian Society of Cardiology express their regret over the way information about the so-called “beneficial” effects of electronic cigarettes is presented in the public sphere. Given their role in representing their members and their responsibility to the public, both societies consider it essential to sound the alarm regarding the harmful impact of e-cigarette use, regardless of their nicotine content. These products have a negative impact on public health.

“The Romanian population has the right to be informed about the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes, beyond the advice pulmonologists and cardiologists provide in medical offices. This requires transparent and responsible communication from the Romanian Society of Pulmonology (SRP) and the Romanian Society of Cardiology (SRC), which represent the voices of pulmonologists and cardiologists,” the two medical institutions argue.

SRP and SRC express concern over the promotion of studies funded by the tobacco industry, which aim to manipulate public opinion by portraying e-cigarettes as a “healthy alternative to traditional cigarettes.” “Twenty years have passed since the launch of the first such device, and we now have the first studies covering an adequate time span, according to medical literature, to confirm that chronic use of these devices, with or without nicotine, harms all consumers. For adolescents, the risks include acute allergic reactions and impacts on psychobehavioral development. For adults, the consequences manifest in increased pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases,” SRP and SRC say.

Furthermore, they claim that for younger generations, these products serve as a “gateway” to traditional tobacco consumption and even illegal drugs. “Pulmonologists and cardiologists have a duty not only to their patients but also to society as a whole. This is why public information on general health concerns, based on the latest research published in peer-reviewed journals, is supported by SRP and SRC. It is important to emphasize that before publication, scientific articles undergo a rigorous review process and provide essential information for healthcare professionals to understand the risks associated with e-cigarette use, regardless of nicotine content.”

SRP and SRC also believe that discussions on this topic must be based on evidence and concrete data supported by scientifically valid research. Physicians must consider the valuable insights provided by clinical studies regarding the risks of e-cigarettes, as we all aim for a healthier population.

“On this occasion, SRP and SRC send a message to pulmonologists, cardiologists, and specialists from other medical fields, encouraging them to rely on their medical training, especially when misinformation and distortion of scientific evidence infiltrate discussions inappropriately. Only healthcare professionals can comprehensively assess the risks patients face and deliver credible messages validated by scientific data,” they conclude.

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