E-cigarette like any cigarette, says 6th MDG commander

  • Published
  • By Nick Stubbs
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Giving up the smoking habit may be one of the most common New Year's resolutions, but MacDill's health pros are warning that E-cigarettes, plastic cigarette doppelgangers that deliver nicotine-charged puffs of water vapor, are not an Air Force approved smoking alternative for Airmen.

While the devices remain under study by the Federal Food and Drug Administration, the Air Force guidance now is they are considered the same as a traditional tobacco cigarette, said Col. Denis Beatty, 6th Medical Group commander. That's important to know, he said, because some Airmen may believe they are opting for something less harmful than cigarettes, or that they are taking a step in the right direction by adopting the electric devices, which look like a real cigarette, right down to the glowing tip.

"The FDA has found harmful substances in analyzing some of them (E-cigarettes)," said Colonel Beatty. "They are still studying, but for now we consider them the same as a tobacco product."

Colonel Beatty said Airmen should know that just because the devices omit water vapor rather than smoke, it doesn't mean they can be used in non-smoking areas. He notes that users of the E-cigarette will have to use them in designated smoking areas.
In the end, the goal is to get the MacDill population to stop puffing on any nicotine product, Colonel Beatty said. Increasing the number of locations on base that are smoke-free zones, and education efforts to ensure the health risks are known will continue. Stop-smoking programs and classes conducted by the MacDill Health and Wellness Center will continue to receive strong support, and anyone serious about kicking the habit should contact the HAWC, Colonel Beatty said.

"The DoD spends $800 million a year on tobacco-related illnesses, which is a burden born by the taxpayers," said Colonel Beatty. "Overall in the country, it's $315 billion."
Colonel Beatty went on to say he's making it a top priority to reduce the number of smokers at MacDill.

"The 6th Medical Group wants to do everything it can do to stop smoking's ill effects," Colonel Beatty said.