Moylan hits out at lack of HSE data on under age nicotine poisoning

The HSE needs to capture data on under-18s presenting at emergency departments for nicotine poisoning, according to Cllr Sean Moylan.

At the recent HSE West Regional Health Forum, the Fianna Fáil councillor asked the HSE whether it had specific figures on this issue.

In its written response, the HSE said that emergency departments across HSE West and North West do not currently record or report presentations for suspected adverse effects from the use of vapes, e-cigarettes, or nicotine pouches.

“As a result, we are unable to provide figures for the number of under-18s presenting to the emergency departments with suspected issues related to these products, including suspected nicotine poisoning,” it said. 

Speaking at the forum, Cllr Sean Moylan said he was "disappointed to say the least" that the HSE was not recording the numbers for underage people presenting with problems. He added that from speaking to teachers and sports coaches that this was a widespread issue.

“People use these products and get sick. How sick, we don’t know,” the councillor said. “To me as a father and a coach, I think this is a major problem. I am really disappointed that the HSE isn’t taking note of these figures. It is very hard to deal with a problem when you don’t have the information and are operating on hearsay.”