The Acting Upper East Regional Head of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Abel Ndego, has backed calls for a ban on e-cigarettes, shisha, and other harmful tobacco-related products, citing serious health and socio-economic implications, especially among the youth.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Tuesday July 8, Ndego expressed worry about the growing threat of substance abuse among young people and the urgent need for authorities to take decisive actions.
“With respect to tobacco products, the Food and Drugs Authority, recognizing the severe health consequences of exposure to tobacco, has dedicated the entirety of Act 6 of the Public Health Act 861 to tobacco control,” he stated.
Basing his call on health grounds, Ndego revealed that a single stick of cigarette contains no fewer than 5,000 different chemicals, the majority of which are known carcinogens. He described these substances as “enemic to users” and warned of their far-reaching health impacts.
Beyond the health concerns, Ndego noted that the abuse of such substances contributes significantly to social problems and economic burdens.
“Most of the time, when people are hooked on these substances, they tend to engage in social vices, which further compound the challenges facing society,” he said. “The call for a ban is in the right direction.”
He appealed to all stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society organizations, and the general public, to support efforts aimed at addressing the growing menace.
The call aligns with a recent push by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Osman Ayariga, for a nationwide ban on harmful substances, including vaping products, to curb rising youth addiction.
Mike 105.3 FM | Navrongo | David Adapuna
