The House Appropriations Committee has voted in favor of an amendment to an FY’ 2019 appropriations bill that would limit the FDA’s regulatory authority over tobacco products. The amendment claws back provisions in the Tobacco Control Act requiring new tobacco products to undergo scientific review by the FDA in an effort to determine the risks a product poses to the general public. The amendment exempts many tobacco products such as e-cigarettes and cigars from undergoing product reviews if they came to market prior to August 8, 2016.

Many health associations, including the American Cancer Society, the American Lung Association, and the American Medical Association condemned, the committee’s decision and insist that a pre-market scientific review is necessary to continue evaluating the unknown health effects e-cigarettes and other tobacco products have on users. They point to a general lack of research on the long-term health risks associated with e-cigarette use and studies showing aerosols generated by some e-cigarettes contain carcinogens and toxins.

Impact on General Dentistry:  Tobacco increases the risk of developing oral cancers, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. The AGD opposes any efforts to substantially limit FDA’s authority over tobacco.