E-Cigarettes: Health Dangers Prompt Bans in India, Maldives

• E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid into vapor, containing nicotine, propylene glycol, and other chemicals, posing health risks.
• Studies show e-cigarette ingredients like propylene glycol and acrolein can damage cells and lungs, increasing risks of asthma, respiratory issues, and lung cancer.
• India banned e-cigarettes in 2019 under the 'Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act', prohibiting their manufacture, sale, storage, distribution, and advertising.
• Violations in India carry penalties of up to 1 year imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine for the first offense, and up to 3 years and ₹5 lakh for repeat offenses.
• Countries like the Maldives and the WHO do not consider e-cigarettes a safe alternative, warning of their potential to cause addiction and severe health damage.

Why It Matters: E-cigarettes pose severe health risks, leading to bans in India and other nations.