Vape-related lung injury treatment costs up to RM150k: MOH

Electronic Vape Associated Lung Injury (Evali) treatment is estimated to cost up to RM150,000 for a 12-day admission at the hospital ward.

In a written reply, the Health Ministry revealed that 38 vaping-associated cases have been reported, 18 related to the Evali disease since 2022.

“The use of electronic cigarettes or vapes was created as an alternative that was said to be ‘safer’ than tobacco cigarettes.

“However, recent scientific studies have proven that electronic cigarettes or vapes are still dangerous,” it said.

The Health Ministry was replying to Oscar Ling Chai Yew (Pakatan Harapan - Sibu), who asked the ministry to state the good and bad effects of vaping.

The lawmaker also asked if the ministry would limit vaping so that the products are not contained in attractive packaging and come in attractive flavours.

However, the ministry said there are no standards set to determine the safety of e-liquids because there is no safe limit for the chemicals contained in the e-cigarette or vape liquid.

The ministry explained it has plans to continue tabling the Control of Smoking Product for Public Health Bill.

“Through the bill, comprehensive control of electronic cigarette or vaping products will be implemented.

“This includes a ban on products and packaging that resemble children’s games.

“The bill can also control flavours that could attract the attention of children and teenagers to use these products,” the ministry said.

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