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US Armed Forces change policies for smoking on submarines and use of e-cigarettes

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The U.S. Navy has announced that smoking will no longer be permitted below decks on its submarines, effective December 31, 2010. The policy was initiated to protect the health of nonsmoking sailors. The Navy offers smoking cessation programs and nicotine replacement therapy will be widely available on the submarines. Prescription drugs will be off-limits due to the potential to modify behavior patterns. Electronic cigarettes are not authorized.

The Air Force Surgeon General, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Charles B. Green, has issued a memo alerting all Airmen about safety concerns regarding electronic cigarettes. The memo states that due to the nature, appearance and safety concerns of electronic cigarettes, they are considered to be in the same category as tobacco products, the use of which is governed by Air Force Instruction 40-102, Tobacco Use in the Air Force. This product will be included in the upcoming revision of AFI 40-102 due out late 2010.