Jakarta, The PRAKARSA - The use of e-cigarettes or vapes in Indonesia has increased rapidly, in recent years, especially among women, children and teenagers. This is a serious concern for health observers, especially considering the weak supervision of these products. This was expressed by Aqilatul Layyinah, a researcher at The PRAKARSA, in event 2nd ITCRN Conference: New Era of Tobacco Control Policy for Good Health and Wellbeing, held at Grand Asrilia Bandung, Bandung, on Friday (27/92024/XNUMX).
Data shows that Indonesia is now a market for the e-cigarette industry. In 2019, the total market value of e-cigarettes in six Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, reached $595 million. Since 2015, e-cigarette sales in Indonesia have increased significantly, and are projected to soon overtake Malaysia as the largest market in the region (Euromonitor, 2020).
According to the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) data, the proportion of women who consume e-cigarettes is higher than male consumers (Ministry of Health, 2023). This data proves that women are now the main target consumers of electronic cigarette or vape products. This indicates an urgent need to monitor and control the circulation of e-cigarettes, especially among vulnerable women.
According to Aqila, although the consumption of e-cigarettes is still lower than conventional cigarettes, the growth trend in their use is very fast. "Data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (2021) shows that the number of e-cigarette users aged 15 years and over increased from 0,3% in 2011 to 3,0% in 2021. This is a significant spike in a short time," said Aqila.
Aqila further explained that existing regulations, including Government Regulation (PP) No. 28 of 2024, try to regulate the distribution of electronic cigarettes with fairly detailed provisions. However, gaps in supervision still exist and can easily be exploited by the tobacco industry to weaken regulations. "Tobacco Industry Disturbance Index (Tobacco Industry Interference) shows an alarming figure, namely 84 points in 2023, reflecting the strong influence of the tobacco industry on public policy," said Aqila.
Aqila further explained that from the results of her research, she managed to collect visual evidence of the behavior of consumption and distribution of e-cigarettes in South Jakarta. The results of her research showed that many women consider e-cigarettes less dangerous than other tobacco products, and often try vaping in areas where smoking is prohibited.
Based on these findings, Aqila delivered several recommendations to improve supervision and protection of women, including: First, the need to increase public awareness of the health risks posed by e-cigarettes, especially among women and adolescents.
Second, strictly prohibit the distribution of e-cigarettes without exception, to prevent easy access for vulnerable groups. Third, tighten excise regulations for e-cigarette products and prohibit flavor variants that can attract young consumers.
At the end of her presentation, Aqila hoped that the research she conducted could support advocacy related to monitoring the use of electronic cigarettes and their impact on women's health in Indonesia.
"The increasing use of e-cigarettes in Indonesia, especially among women, is a phenomenon that requires serious attention. With stricter supervision and socialization about the dangers of e-cigarettes, it is hoped that it can reduce consumption rates and protect the most vulnerable groups from adverse health impacts," concluded Aqila.
