LGUs urged to intensify drive vs. smoking, vaping

CEBU, Philippines —  A Cebu-based physician has called on local government units (LGUs) across the province to intensify information and education campaigns on tobacco harm reduction, stressing that stronger public awareness is needed to address the health risks associated with both smoking and vaping.

Dr. Gerard Garcia, chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine at Cebu Doctors' University, said local governments play a vital role in ensuring that communities receive accurate and science-based information about tobacco and nicotine products.

Speaking during the “Hisgutan Ta!” Media Forum last Thursday, May 28, the pulmonologist said more platforms are needed to discuss tobacco harm reduction and smoking cessation, particularly among young people who remain vulnerable to nicotine addiction.

“I think we do. We need more platforms,” Garcia said when asked about the current state of discussions on tobacco harm reduction.

He said previous initiatives involving medical organizations and community stakeholders sought to promote smoking cessation and discourage tobacco use among the youth, but sustained efforts are necessary to keep the advocacy active.

Garcia emphasized that preventing young people from initiating smoking or vaping should be among the government's priorities, noting that early exposure to nicotine products could lead to long-term dependence.

“I think we should target the initiation of smoking, especially vaping. Once they start, they'll open up and they'll start smoking later on,” he said.

He also urged authorities to strengthen regulations on the sale of vaping products and other nicotine-related items to minors while increasing public awareness campaigns about their health effects.

He warned that both conventional cigarettes and electronic cigarettes pose health risks, adding that the harmful effects of tobacco use extend beyond the smoker.

According to Garcia, exposure to tobacco smoke can affect not only active smokers but also individuals who inhale second-hand smoke and those exposed to toxic chemical residues left on surfaces, commonly referred to as third-hand smoke.

He cited several diseases linked to smoking, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, asthma, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

While vaping is often promoted as a less-harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, Garcia cautioned against the misconception that it is safe.

“It is safer than the cigarette, but again, it's not harmless,” he shared.

He furthered noted that although some people use vaping as a tool to quit smoking or reduce cigarette consumption, potential health risks remain.

Garcia also pointed out that the long-term health effects of vaping are still not fully understood, underscoring the need for continued public education and research.

Addressing the growing popularity of vaping among young people, he said education remains one of the most effective tools in preventing nicotine use and addiction.

“I think information dissemination is very crucial also,” Garcia said.

He added that parents, teachers, and caretakers should play a more active role in guiding children and adolescents, especially as vaping products become increasingly visible through flavored variants and social media trends.

“I think the parents also, or the caretakers should be involved also,” Garcia said, “the children are very vulnerable.”

Garcia said experiences from school-based lectures have shown that young people are willing to listen and engage in discussions about the dangers of smoking and vaping, giving advocates reason to continue educational campaigns in schools and communities. — (FREEMAN)