The ongoing debate regarding the safety of e-cigarettes has taken a new turn in Thailand, as health officials raised alarm bells over the dangers posed by these products, particularly when mixed with harmful substances. On March 18, 2025, Dr. Panumas Yanwatsakul, head of the Department of Disease Control, warned about the rising trend of so-called "Zombie Cigarettes," which use Etomidate—an anesthetic drug—as an additive. His warning comes as research indicates serious health implications associated with this practice.
Dr. Yanwatsakul stated, "The use of e-cigarettes mixed with Etomidate can lead to addiction and severe health consequences, including possible heart damage." This statement highlights the emerging dangers surrounding e-cigarette use, particularly among youth who may mistakenly believe these products are a safe alternative to traditional cigarettes.
Dr. Suthas Chotanaphand, a Deputy Director at the Department, echoed these concerns, noting that e-cigarettes and their heated counterparts often contain toxic substances that can be just as harmful, if not more so, than regular cigarettes. He emphasized the misconception that heated tobacco products (HTPs) are devoid of risk simply because they do not involve direct combustion.
"Heated tobacco products are just as harmful, if not more so, than regular cigarettes due to their chemical composition," Dr. Chotanaphand explained. This assertion is corroborated by ongoing studies that reveal a troubling link between these products and serious health issues, including obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes—a nightmare scenario for public health advocates.
A recent report from Mahidol University further elucidates these risks, showing that the perception of e-cigarettes as safer alternatives to smoking tobacco is dangerously misplaced. Researchers, including those from the Public Health Security Office, highlighted the immediate impact of e-cigarettes containing Etomidate, which has been associated with muscle weakness and hypertension, as well as significant disruptions in adrenal function, responsible for regulating hormones and electrolytes in the body.
The vast landscape of e-cigarette use is concerning, especially among adolescents and young adults who are often unaware of the dangers they pose. Statistics indicate a marked increase in e-cigarette use among this demographic, a trend that health officials aim to halt. Dr. Chayanon Sithi-busak, Director of the Tobacco Product Control Bureau, pointed out that the use of heated tobacco products over an extended period significantly elevates the risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases.
"Continued use beyond three years significantly increases the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases among users of heated tobacco products," Dr. Sithi-busak warned, indicating a need for urgent public health messaging and stricter regulation of such products.
Officials are particularly worried about the potential for youth—as well as former smokers seeking alternatives—to become entrenched in a cycle of addiction that could lead to serious long-term health consequences. The Thai government is actively pursuing policies aimed at reducing the incidence of non-communicable diseases that result from tobacco use.
In response to these warnings, the government has resolved to enforce stringent regulations on the importation and sale of all forms of e-cigarettes. This policy is aimed at keeping these products away from the grasp of children and young adults who may be vulnerable to nicotine addiction. Health officials argue that education is key to ensuring that the public understands the dangers involved and the importance of seeking safer alternatives.
For those seeking information on quitting smoking or e-cigarettes, health services are available nationwide through hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Public Health. Additionally, citizens can contact support hotlines for smoking cessation advice.
To facilitate a healthier future for the population, the campaign against e-cigarettes is set to continue with increased awareness efforts. As the dialogue around smoking and its implications evolves, it becomes crucial for the public to stay informed and vigilant against the hazards posed by e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
In conclusion, Thailand stands at a crossroads in its battle against tobacco use. Public health officials are urging caution and vigilance as the dangers of e-cigarettes are unveiled, potentially saving countless lives from preventable diseases.
