Experts warn of 'white smoke pandemic' in schools

This is the warning given by Associate Professor, Dr. Phan Thu Phuong, Director of the Respiratory Center, Bach Mai Hospital, at the seminar "Students say NO to electronic cigarettes" recently held at Phu Thuong Secondary School (Tay Ho, Hanoi ), with the support of VinFuture Foundation.

Present danger

The event is part of the " Intervention Program on Prevention and Control of Electronic Cigarettes in Secondary Schools in Major Cities in Vietnam " implemented by the University of Public Health in collaboration with the VinFuture Foundation, attracting about 1,000 students, teachers, parents and representatives of local authorities.

At the sharing session, Associate Professor, Dr. Phuong emphasized: “Electronic cigarettes are not harmless as many young people mistakenly believe.” According to her, international studies and practices in Vietnam show that this product contains many addictive substances, especially salt nicotine – which is easily absorbed and more addictive. Many products are also mixed with synthetic drugs, increasing the risk of poisoning.

“The Poison Control Center of Bach Mai Hospital has received many cases of e-cigarette poisoning. Some patients were hospitalized in a coma, with multiple organ failure, and acute brain or lung damage due to the vitamin E acetate ingredient,” she said.

Data from the Poison Control Center of Bach Mai Hospital recorded 120 cases of related poisoning in the period 2022-2023. In 2023 alone, nearly 700 medical facilities nationwide reported 1,224 hospitalizations due to e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, with common symptoms being allergies, poisoning, and acute lung injury.

The National Assembly 's passing of Resolution 173/2024/QH15 banning e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products from 2025 is considered by experts to be an important step forward, making Vietnam the 6th country in ASEAN to impose a complete ban on new-generation tobacco products. However, according to Ms. Phuong, policy alone is not enough, and implementation will face many challenges without comprehensive intervention programs and a synchronous sanction system.

“Can't sit and wait”

Associate Professor, Dr. Phan Thu Phuong - Director of the Respiratory Center, Bach Mai Hospital shares scientific information about the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes.

Dr. Tran Thi Phuong Thao (Hanoi University of Public Health) said that up to 10.6% of students believe that e-cigarettes are not harmful or less harmful than traditional cigarettes; the rate for heated tobacco products is 3%. This is a misconception, increasing the risk of spreading the "white smoke epidemic" in schools.

Previously, in May 2025, the University of Public Health and VinFuture Foundation announced the implementation of the Intervention Program on Prevention and Control of E-cigarettes in Secondary Schools in Major Cities in Vietnam . The program aims to build an effective intervention model based on science, promote coordination between the health and education sectors, thereby preventing the increasing use of e-cigarettes.

The program also collaborates professionally with the REACH research group led by Professor Bonnie Halpern-Felsher (Stanford University, USA), contributing to protecting school health, raising awareness and building a healthy educational environment.

“We cannot wait for patients to be hospitalized before treatment. At that time, the burden on families and society is too great. Having funds like VinFuture accompanying will help the program to be implemented professionally and with focus, ” Associate Professor, Dr. Phan Thu Phuong assessed.

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/chuyen-gia-canh-bao-ve-dai-dich-khoi-trang-hoc-duong-post747721.html