Nicotine Science and Policy

The community receives special offers and promotions. Many aim to lead a healthier lifestyle in 2025 by quitting unhealthy habits like smoking. Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity as a smoke-free alternative. However, fake tobacco products pose health risks, emphasizing the importance of buying from trusted sources. Counterfeit products may contain harmful chemicals and inconsistent nicotine levels, jeopardizing health and efforts to quit smoking. It's crucial to check for authentic packaging, QR codes, and buy from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit items. Always ensure product legitimacy before use to prevent health complications.

Mexico's vaping prohibition, included in its constitution in 2024, resulted from authoritarian governance and collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies and local NGOs influencing policy. Despite opposition and Supreme Court rulings, the ban passed in a questionable process. President AMLO's personal motives, possibly linked to his son's health, drove this extreme measure. The enforcement may lead to criminal cartel dominance in the vape market. Foreign involvement influenced Mexico's anti-vaping stance, favoring a controversial ban despite limited public support. The prohibition's consequences, including black market risks, await assessment under the new administration. This hasty, authoritarian process reflects a concerning direction in Mexico's policy-making.

Hong Kong authorities plan to ban e-cigarette cartridges in public areas as part of a citywide effort to reduce vaping and smoking rates to 7.8%. The legislative proposals include banning alternative smoking products and flavored cigarettes. Business leaders worry about the impact on tourism and business. The ban is expected to be implemented in two phases, with the first phase prohibiting smoking and possession of smoking-related materials in public places. The second phase will expand the possession ban citywide. Proposals will be presented to the Legislative Council in the first quarter of this year.

CAPHRA is urging Asia Pacific Health Ministries to include consumer perspectives in tobacco policies for the upcoming FCTC COP11 in November 2025. The organization emphasizes stakeholder participation for consumer voices, highlighting the importance of their insights in decision-making. CAPHRA clarifies its independent status and grassroots advocacy for harm reduction in the region, emphasizing evidence-based policies. They aim to represent adult consumers' rights to safer nicotine products and challenge exclusion based on FCTC Article 5.3. CAPHRA advocates for inclusive processes that benefit all citizens.

A recent study published in BMJ Open shows a significant drop in smoking rates in Sweden since the 1980s, matched by a rise in snus usage. By 2022, only 4.5% of Swedes were smokers, with more women switching to snus than men. Sweden's pioneering approach to alternatives like vaping and snus has been credited for its success in reducing smoking. The study, based on surveys of over 13,000 people, highlights the impact of snus on smoking rates. Younger women showed the most significant shift from cigarettes to snus. Sweden reached its smoke-free goal well ahead of the EU target, with much lower tobacco-related health issues compared to the rest of Europe.

This episode features Dr. Mendelsohn discussing vaping’s role in harm reduction, societal misconceptions, the stigma smokers face, and the impact of Australia’s restrictive vaping policies.

A study by University College London reveals the increase in "dual use" of smoking and vaping among adults in England, particularly in young adults. Researchers noted a rise from 3.5% in 2016 to 5.2% in 2024, with 34% of smokers now also vaping. The proportion of smokers who vape daily and smoke less has increased, possibly indicating a shift towards harm reduction. Concerns were raised about misconceptions on vaping harms hindering smoking cessation efforts. Accurate messaging on smoking and vaping risks is crucial for informed decision-making. Initiatives like the swap-to-stop scheme aim to support full switching from smoking to vaping for improved public health.

British American Tobacco halted e-cigarette sales in response to Mexico's vaping restrictions and concerns over a growing black market. The company emphasizes the need for balanced rules to protect health, businesses, and tax revenues. Mexico's ban on e-cigarettes has impacted the tobacco industry, with BAT temporarily stopping vape sales. The focus is on preventing illegal markets and youth access while considering economic consequences. Mexico's ban stems from health worries, but BAT argues for regulated products to reduce harm and prevent illicit trade. The company suggests Mexico follow global examples of balanced regulations. BAT highlights potential tax losses from the black market and advocates for sensible regulations to allow adult smokers to access safer alternatives.

Vaping now incurs a €2,000 fine on 38 beaches in Barcelona and the Balearic islands, in line with new regulations. Spain's smoking ban covers 700 beaches and public restaurant terraces, with upcoming restrictions on disposable vapes and non-tobacco flavors. The Anti-Tobacco Plan aims to curb health risks and youth exposure. Recommendations include banning smoking in vehicles with minors and better vape labeling. Despite Spain's high smoking rate and vaping popularity, concerns exist on fueling black markets. The proposed laws may impact EU vape policies. Spain could join countries like Denmark and Finland in flavor bans if the decree passes.

A cross-sectional study of 107,249 American adults found no independent link between e-cigarette use and PCS after COVID-19 infection. Factors associated with PCS included female gender, cigarette smoking, and other health conditions. Sensitivity analyses supported the study's conclusions. Previous research on e-cigarettes and PCS showed mixed results, with some suggesting potential harm. The lack of mediation by COPD contradicts previous findings. Mechanisms linking e-cigarettes to health issues were explored. The study had strengths in representation and analytical methods but acknowledged limitations in missing data and self-reporting bias.