Press Release | 29 May 2024

The Department of Health (DOH) cautions the public against the multisystemic adverse effects of Electronic Cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and other Vape Products. A recent medical case report highlights the severe health risks associated with vaping.

In the case documented by Dr. Margarita Isabel C. Fernandez et al published in the journal Respirology Case Reports, a 22-year-old Filipino male with no prior health issues suffered a fatal heart attack, following severe lung injury possibly attributed to his daily vape use.

The patient was admitted to the hospital with severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, and experienced a heart attack caused by blockages in his two major arteries. The patient also developed a serious lung condition known as e-cigarette or vaping-use associated lung injury (EVALI).

Further examination showed severe pneumonia-like symptoms in the lungs, but no infections were detected. Doctors performed an emergency procedure to open the blocked heart artery, but, despite their efforts, the patient’s condition worsened. The patient developed respiratory failure, requiring mechanical ventilation, and passed away three days after admission.

This tragic case underscores that e-cigarettes or vape products are not a safer smoking alternative as it endangers individuals, especially young people. Growing evidence suggests that it can cause significant harm to multiple body systems. The chemicals in e-cigarettes can damage the heart and lungs, leading to conditions like heart attacks and EVALI. Vaping can increase the risk of heart attacks, even in young and otherwise healthy individuals. EVALI is a serious condition linked to vaping, characterized by severe lung inflammation and damage. The harmful effects of vaping are not limited to the lungs and heart but can impact overall health.

“E-Cigarettes and Vaping are not a safe alternative to smoking. Usok pa rin yan. May this tragic case serve as a stark reminder of their serious health risks. We urge everyone, especially the youth, not to believe the false advertisements that vaping is a safer smoking alternative, and to make informed decisions to protect their health. The DOH remains committed to educating the public about the dangers of vaping, and advocating for stricter regulations on these harmful products towards a Bagong Pilipinas kung saan Bawat Buhay Mahalaga,” expressed Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.