Johannesburg, South Africa — Protect Our Next, a leading public health advocacy partnership representing health and community non-profit organisations, commends the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) for its decisive action to ban the sale of e-cigarettes in pharmacies. This important measure reflects the Council’s commitment to safeguarding youth and the broader public from the harmful effects of tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery devices, says Dr Sharon Nyatsanza of Protect our Next. 

In March, the SAPC released proposed amendments to the rules of good pharmacy practice for public comment, which included adding electronic nicotine delivery devices (ENDDs) and electronic non-nicotine delivery devices (ENNDDs) to a list of products that may not be sold in pharmacies. This list already includes guns, alcohol, and tobacco. The public had until May 28 to submit comments on these proposed changes.

This move aligns with the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, which aims to regulate e-cigarettes under the same controls as traditional tobacco products. The initiative was prompted by inquiries from pharmacies regarding the sale of vapes and refills, according to SAPC Registrar Vincent Tlale.

The Independent Community Pharmacy Association (ICPA), representing over 1,200 independently owned pharmacies, has expressed strong support for the Council’s decision. ICPA CEO Jackie Maimin highlighted the potential misconception that products sold in pharmacies are inherently safe and vetted, which is not the case for tobacco and nicotine-related products.

“When products are stocked in pharmacies, it’s assumed that they’ve been vetted or recommended by pharmacists and are healthy or beneficial. This assumption couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to tobacco and nicotine-related products,” Maimin says.

To be sold in pharmacies, e-cigarettes would need to be approved as smoking-cessation devices by the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and sold on prescription, ensuring they meet rigorous safety standards.

The Tobacco Control Bill, submitted to parliament in 2023, proposes similar measures prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes in pharmacies. The bill lapsed due to parliamentary sessions concluding before the May 29 general election, and is expected to be revived by the incoming administration.. The Protect Our Next partnership strongly supports this Bill, advocating for its swift passage and rigorous enforcement. 

Protect Our Next applauds the SAPC for its proactive stance in protecting public health, particularly the well-being of young people. We urge other regulatory bodies and stakeholders to support these vital measures and continue advocating for robust tobacco control policies. 

“Pharmacies have a responsibility to uphold health and safety by refraining from selling tobacco and nicotine products which are not approved as cessation aids” says Dr Nyatsanza. “They should instead focus on offering approved resources and support for smoking cessation. Displaying educational materials about the risks of tobacco and e-cigarette use and available cessation aids can inform customers and steer them towards healthier choices. Additionally, pharmacists should be vigilant in counselling patients, particularly young people, about the dangers of nicotine addiction and providing guidance on quitting.”

Nyatsanza says that, like pharmacies, we don’t need to wait for the new Tobacco Control bill to be passed into law before implementing tobacco and e-cigarette control measures that will protect our youth. “Schools, restaurants, vendors, communities and citizens can all proactively implement measures in the Bill. Together, we can create an environment where our youth are shielded from the temptations and dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes, ensuring a healthier future for all.”

Schools: Educating and shielding the youth

Schools serve as vital centres for youth education and empowerment, making them the perfect starting point for implementing tobacco and e-cigarette control measures. Administrators should integrate comprehensive awareness programs into the curriculum, emphasising the dangers of both traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes, says Lorraine Govender of CANSA. “Enforcing strict no-smoking policies on school grounds, and creating smoke-free zones surrounding the premises, can deter smoking and vaping. Involving students in peer-led initiatives can foster a supportive environment where youths encourage each other to stay tobacco-free.”

Restaurants: Promoting a smoke-free dining experience
Restaurants play a crucial role in protecting patrons from second-hand smoke and aerosols. Implementing strict no-smoking policies prohibiting use of all tobacco and e-cigarette products both inside and outside dining areas ensures a healthier environment for all customers, including families and young people. Publicly displaying “No Smoking” signs and providing staff training on enforcing these policies can effectively reduce exposure to tobacco smoke. Furthermore, promoting smoke-free establishments as a selling point can appeal to health-conscious customers and enhance the establishment’s reputation.

Vendors: Prioritising health over profit
Vendors must rise to the challenge of prioritising public health by refusing to sell all tobacco-related products, especially near schools. Instead, they should champion nutritious offerings that contribute to the well-being of their communities. 

Communities: Rallying together for a healthier future
Community organisations and leaders must take proactive steps to protect the public, particularly the youth, from tobacco harm. Organising community-wide campaigns and events to raise awareness about the new tobacco control measures can galvanise support in and spread critical information. Establishing smoke-free and e-cigarette free zones in public areas such as parks, playgrounds, and recreational centres can further reduce youth exposure to tobacco. Collaboration between community groups, schools, and local businesses amplifies these efforts, creating a unified front against tobacco use.

“Every citizen has a role to play in safeguarding our youth from the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes. Parents and guardians should actively educate their children about the risks associated with these products and model tobacco-free behaviour,” says Nyatsanza.  “Individuals can support tobacco control initiatives by advocating for smoke-free policies in their workplaces, homes, and communities. By staying informed and vocal about the importance of strong tobacco regulations, citizens contribute to a collective effort that prioritises public health and protects future generations.”

For more information on how to get involved, visit Protect Our Next.