Turkish Medical Association warns Ministry of Health on tobacco and e-cigarettes
Medical organizations drew attention to the public health threat posed by tobacco products and called on the Ministry of Health not to authorize new products.
The Turkish Medical Association and the Coordination Committee of TTB Specialty Associations sent an official letter to the Ministry of Health ahead of planned regulations in tobacco legislation, demanding that no approval be given to new tobacco and nicotine products and that indoor smoking bans be implemented without exception.
Details of the Letter Sent to the Ministry of Health
The Turkish Medical Association and the Coordination Committee of TTB Specialty Associations submitted an official letter to the Ministry of Health for regulations to be made within the scope of Law No. 4207.
Tobacco Use and Serious Threats
In the letter dated September 25, it was emphasized that tobacco use and exposure to these products continue to pose a serious risk to public health.
Illegal Sales and Advertisements
Drawing attention to the fact that the use of e-cigarettes has become widespread despite their commercial sale being prohibited, it was stated that advertisements at retail points of sale continue.
Demand for Unconditional Indoor Bans
Medical organizations demanded that indoor environments be completely protected from tobacco products without any exceptions and that inspections be increased.
Opposition to New Tobacco Products
Opposition was raised against licensing practices for new tobacco products and heated nicotine products introduced to the market by the industry to boost sales.
Reduction of Visibility and Quota Proposal
In order to reduce the accessibility of tobacco products, it was proposed to limit market supply with quotas and eliminate their visual appeal.