'Serious stand' against vaporiser peddlers

More than 9,000 vaporisers were seized between 2013 and last year, said a joint statement from the Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority and the Health Promotion Board.

These were mostly confiscated from individuals entering Singapore's checkpoints as well as from parcels en route to people who bought the devices online.

In the same time period, 17 peddlers were caught for selling vaporisers locally.

The stiffest penalty meted out thus far was a fine of $64,500.

"HSA takes a serious stand against vaporiser peddlers," the statement said.

The statement also advises against the use of vaporisers to quit smoking or to reduce nicotine addiction.

It cited a report last year by the World Health Organisation that said vaporisers "can contain cancer-causing agents and toxicants, and in some cases, as much as those in conventional cigarettes".

The nicotine in vaporisers can also cause adverse effects during pregnancy and may contribute to cardiovascular disease, and may promote the growth of tumours.

"Such products are likely to lead to nicotine addiction among users and may also encourage experimentation with other forms of tobacco, in turn leading to chronic diseases and premature death," the statement said.

Smokers who wish to quit can call the toll-free Quitline at 1800-438-2000 or join the iQuit club at www.iquitclub.sg.

This article was first published on June 28, 2015.
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