Data from: Experts’ consensus on use of electronic cigarettes: a Delphi survey from Switzerland

Objectives: In some countries, nicotine electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are considered a consumer product without specific regulation. In others (eg Switzerland), e-cigarettes sale is forbidden, though many smokers are eager to get it. As scientific data about efficacy and long-term safety are scarce, tobacco control experts are divided on how to regulate it. In order to get consensus among experts to provide recommendations to health authorities, we performed a national consensus study. Setting: We used a Delphi method with electronic questionnaires to bring together the opinion of Swiss experts about e-cigarettes. Participants: 40 swiss experts from all over the country took part to the study. Primary and secondary outcomes mesures: We measured the degree of consensus between the participating experts on recommendations regarding regulation, sale, use and general opinion about e-cigarettes. New recommendations and statements were added following experts’ answers and comments. Results: There was consensus that e-cigarettes with nicotine should be available, but with a specific regulation. Sale should be restricted to adults, with quality standards, an upper nicotine concentration and a list of authorized components. Advertisement should be restricted and use in public places should be forbidden. Conclusions: These recommendations bring together 3 principles: 1) the reality principle, as the product is already on the market; 2) the prevention principle, as they provide an alternative to tobacco for actual smokers, and 3) the precautionary principle, as they protect minors and non-smokers, since long-term effects are not yet known. Swiss authorities should plan specific regulation to sell nicotine e-cigarettes.