Nicotine Science and Policy

The AMA's Tasmanian branch criticized vaping inaccurately, denying its effectiveness in smoking cessation despite strong evidence. Dismissing vaping as a safer alternative and linking it to tobacco companies misleads the public. Claims of vaping causing lung injury and being a gateway to smoking are unfounded. Stricter vaping regulations may fuel illicit trade. GPs' support for vaping varies, leaving many smokers without guidance. The AMA's stance overlooks scientific evidence and harm reduction potential of vaping, hindering public health. Acknowledging vaping's benefits is crucial for reducing smoking harm effectively.

The Georgia House committee investigates the youth vaping epidemic and proposes a statewide vape registry. Law enforcement and school officials express concerns about unregulated vape products, linking them to organized crime and drug trafficking. Despite the focus on nicotine vapor products, THC vapes also raise alarm. Previous attempts to regulate vaping in the state include criminalizing public vaping. Nationwide, states are implementing PMTA registries amid criticism that they benefit tobacco companies. Reports of fentanyl-laced vapes causing harm are debunked. Schools are exploring interventions such as vape detectors and rewards programs to discourage vaping. Georgia considers raising tobacco taxes but remains cautious about vaping.

MANILA – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) recently released the updated floor price of vape, cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, noting that sellers are prohibited from selling these products below the floor price. The updated floor price was contained in the BIR's Revenue Regulation (RR) 16-2024 issued on Sept. 16. "We are warning all e-marketplaces, online sellers, retail sellers, suppliers and distributors that are selling vape, cigarettes, and heated tobacco products below the floor price. This is a criminal violation penalized by imprisonment of the seller," BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said in a statement on Wednesday.

Pharmacist Kelly Kizlyk explains new Health Canada legislation around nicotine pouches to only be sold in pharmacies. The product is intended to be a nicotine replacement. She adds that Zonnic pouches have 4 mg of nicotine in them, or two cigarettes.

A New Brunswick vape store mistakenly warned of a flavor ban effective on Sept. 1, which was not true. Amendments to the province's regulations include new licensing requirements and penalties for non-compliance. The changes aim to tackle youth vaping, with 24% of students having tried it. The Canadian Cancer Society supports the amendments to reduce youth vaping. Further efforts include raising the minimum age for purchasing vaping products to 21. Federal regulations are being urged to restrict vape flavors nationwide. Despite legal challenges, measures are being taken to combat illegal sales and reduce nicotine addiction among youth.

The European Commission recommends extending smoking bans to outdoor areas, including e-cigarettes and nicotine-free products, to reduce health risks. This proposal, part of the Beating Cancer Plan, aims to create smoke-free environments by targeting aerosols and tobacco exposure. Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides emphasizes prevention through lifestyle changes, highlighting the risks of tobacco use. The guidelines, not legally binding, cover public spaces and aim to reduce tobacco-related diseases. Implementation is expected to decrease second-hand smoke exposure and support smoking cessation efforts by 2025, contributing to a tobacco-free generation by 2040.