KUALA LUMPUR: The government has to fork out more than RM150,000 to treat an individual suffering from e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injuries (Evali).
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the treatment cost was projected to rise to RM369 million annually by 2030 if no control measures were taken against the use of electronic cigarettes or vapes.
He said a total of 41 Evali cases have been reported from 2019 until Sept 30 this year.
"In addition to Evali, the National Poison Centre recorded 111 cases of incidents related to exposure to e-cigarettes or vape liquids from 2015 to 2023.
"The estimated treatment cost borne by the government for each Evali patient admitted to the hospital for 12 days is RM150,892.11.
"If no control measures are taken against the use of electronic cigarettes or vapes, this treatment cost is projected to rise to RM369 million annually by 2030," he said in a written parliamentary reply.
He was responding to a question from Datuk Dr Alias Razak (PN-Kuala Nerus) about Evali statistics and the treatment costs borne by the government.
Dr Dzulkefly said the implementation of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, which came into force on Oct 1, is expected to help curb the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping, particularly among children and teenagers.
"This act is also expected to raise public awareness of the dangers of tobacco products, encourage positive changes in behaviour and lifestyle, and ultimately improve public health," he said.