The FDA Gets Real

Dear FDA,

THANK YOU. I really appreciate this one. For the first time in a long while, you are stepping up to the plate swiftly. That May 1 note you wrote to more than a dozen manufacturers and sellers of e-cigarettes and their accompanying e-juice was awesome. Then, when just a week later you came out with a second round of warnings, this time aimed at makers and sellers who were clearly pedaling their nicotine-infused wares to young kids, you made me love you a whole lot more.

It’s been a while since you did something bold. Before this month, I wasn’t sure I even really liked you so much anymore. I mean, you were supposed to simplify nutrition labels, but they are still barely legible. And what’s up with not regulating vitamins, minerals, supplements, and over-the-counter meds? Everyone in America buys that stuff. I know, I know, you have a lot going on. We all do. But for a long while it felt like you didn’t have any accountability. Or maybe what you lacked was a conscience.

I am so happy to meet the new and improved version of you! When you decided to take on e-cigarettes – and particularly Juul which has my kids in its crosshairs – it was the first time in a long time that you caught my eye. And most other pediatricians’ too. Not to mention parents, teachers, and health advocates. We all took note. Keep it up, FDA. Seriously. You are winning some big fans.