The News Minute | August 27, 2014 | 03.00 pm IST
Over speculation regarding its harmful effects, the World Health Organization has called for a complete ban on e-cigarettes to minors and an enforced regulation on sale of the electronic cigarettes.
In a report issued on Tuesday, WHO advised all countries to take steps to either ban the product or keep advertisement of e-cigarettes to a complete minimum, according to Global News.
According to the WHO report, around 466 brands of e-cigarettes exist and around $3 billion dollars spent globally on ENDS. These modified cigarettes contain lesser nicotine and are believed to help kick the smoking habit.
WHO also elaborated on the harmful effect of these smoking devices on the brain development of adolescents and foetuses of pregnant mothers using these devices
E-cigarettes have often been marketed as a healthy alternative to smoking or as an aid to quit smoking. The popular smoking devices have come under fire from government and health officials who say more research is needed about the effects of the vapor.
The report also predicted a steep incline in Electronic nicotine delivery systems or ENDS sales at a factor of 17 by 2030.
Currently, India allows easy accessibility to e-cigarettes over the Internet and directly in shops.