AMA’s Updated Stance on E-cigarettes
The American Medical Association (AMA) has expressed its support for an FDA proposal aimed at bridging the gap in federal regulations concerning the purchase, labeling, packaging, and advertising of electronic cigarettes. This was announced by the incoming AMA President, Dr. Robert M. Wah. He emphasized that this new policy will steer the AMA’s future endeavors to robustly advocate for the proposed FDA regulation, a significant step towards enhancing public health and preventing the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors.
AMA’s Policy on E-cigarettes and Nicotine Delivery Systems
The new policy introduced by the AMA, in addition to enforcing minimum age restrictions for purchases, advocates for the following product requirements for electronic cigarettes and nicotine delivery systems:
- Transparency in the design, content, and emissions;
- Safety measures such as child-proof and tamper-proof packaging and design;
- Improved product labeling;
- Restrictions on flavors that are attractive to minors; and
- Prohibition of unsupported marketing claims promoting these products as a tool for tobacco cessation.
The AMA is also actively encouraging the development of strategies to prevent the marketing of electronic cigarettes and nicotine delivery systems to minors and to mitigate the adverse health effects of nicotine on minors.
AMA’s Commitment to Public Health
Dr. Wah reiterated that the AMA’s top priority is to enhance the health of the nation. The association will persist in advocating for policies that help alleviate the burden of preventable diseases like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, both of which can be associated with smoking.
About the AMA
The American Medical Association is a leading national organization. It is committed to empowering the nation’s physicians to consistently deliver safer, higher quality, and more efficient care to patients and communities. For over 165 years, the AMA has remained steadfast in its commitment to leverage its unique position and knowledge to shape a healthier future for America.
