FDA to start regulating tobacco products

THE Department of Health (DOH) is all set to start regulating the contents of tobacco products via the reinforced Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In a press conference, FDA Director Dr. Suzette Lazo revealed that the Republic Act 9711 Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) has given the agency the power to standardize the contents of tobacco products.

“We did not regulate tobacco before (but) because of health implications of tobacco and the DOH has the responsibility to safeguard public health and make its effects preventable… It is going to do this thru the FDA,” said Lazo.

“We will comply with our mandate,” she added.

The health official failed to explain further their new mandate on tobacco regulation saying they are still going through the IRR but added that the law also gives the FDA powers to hold in contempt those that don't follow their prescribed orders.

“Maybe we will look in the nicotine levels or any substance that would want people to smoke more,” said Lazo.

Smoke-related illnesses, such as lung cancer and heart diseases, have been identified as one of the more avoidable diseases.

It can be recalled that the DOH and some advocacy groups have been pushing for the implementation of the Administrative Order No. 2010-0013 requiring graphic health information on all tobacco packages.

This was, however, blocked by several tobacco manufacturers saying it does not conform to the guidelines set by the Tobacco Regulation Act (TRA) of 2003.

The use of graphic warning signs in compliance with the provisions of the World Health Organization-initiated Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), wherein the Philippines is a signatory. (AMN/Sunnex)

Tomado de;

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2011/03/15/fda-start-regulating-tobacco-products-144942