Nicotine Science and Policy

By Harry Shapiro March 19, 2025

Harry’s blog 127: The truth is still out there.

A free self-guided introduction to tobacco harm reduction from K•A•C aims to raise awareness of the approach among a wider community of policymakers, researchers, health professionals – and adult smokers.

Recent GFN-TV Interviews

July 10, 2025 by rollcall.com

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In Sweden, smokeless products drive tobacco harm reduction push

Karl Fagerström, a Swedish researcher and inventor, founded Niconovum for smoking cessation, creating tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Despite public health interest waning, harm reduction advocates emphasize safer nicotine consumption alternatives. In Sweden, smokeless products are popular, prompting tobacco harm reduction support. In the US, former FDA commissioners suggest promoting noncombustible nicotine products. Small companies face challenges in gaining FDA approval, unlike in Sweden where regulations are more flexible. Public health debates the efficacy of harm reduction approaches, acknowledging the addictive nature of nicotine products. The tobacco industry's role in harm reduction efforts remains controversial.



July 10, 2025 by euractiv.com

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Sweden rejects EU plan to fund budget with tobacco tax

Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson has rejected an EU proposal to use revenue from increased tobacco taxes to fund the next long-term EU budget, calling it “completely unacceptable.” The idea, mentioned in a German parliamentary document, suggests new funding sources like levies on tobacco and electronic waste for the 2028–2034 budget. Although not yet confirmed by the European Commission, pressure is mounting from at least 15 EU countries to raise tobacco taxes. The Commission is reportedly considering a 139% tax increase on cigarettes and higher taxes on e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco.



July 10, 2025 by news-medical.net

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Vaping linked to higher COPD risk, meta-analysis finds

Research reveals e-cigarettes are linked to increased risk of chronic lung disease, especially for current and former users. The study analyzed observational data from various countries and found that current users have a 48% higher risk, while former users face an 84% higher risk of COPD. However, causation is not confirmed, and findings could be influenced by factors like smoking history. Transitioning from traditional cigarettes to vaping involves risks, and further longitudinal research is recommended to understand the long-term effects of e-cigarette use on lung health. Public health guidance should aim to balance smoking cessation benefits with potential respiratory harm from vaping.



July 09, 2025 by nytimes.com

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Just How Harmful Is Vaping? More Evidence Is Emerging.

The popularity of vapes as a healthier alternative to cigarettes is waning as studies reveal health hazards. Recent research showed high levels of heavy metals in vape mist, raising concerns about heart, lung, and brain impacts. Funding cuts for anti-vaping programs and limited data on long-term effects add to worries. Understanding the full extent of vaping risks is hindered by the relationship between vaping and cigarette use, especially among teens and young adults. Despite being used by a small percentage of adults, vaping rates among high school students remain higher.



July 09, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

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Australia’s youth smoking and vaping rates surge after vape ban

Smoking and vaping rates among young Australians, particularly in the 18 to 24 age group, have surged despite a ban on vapes. Data shows 28% engage in smoking or vaping, with significant increases seen within a year. Vaping rates are at 20.5%, while cigarette use also rose. The ban on vapes has not curbed usage, leading to concerns of a shift to illicit tobacco products. Organized crime is thriving due to the rise in black market tobacco sales. Efforts to combat non-therapeutic vaping have had unintended consequences, with young adults being disproportionately affected. Illicit vape sales now outnumber legal ones in Australia.


12.50% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.6 million current smokers in Australia 14.80% of men are current smokers but only 10.30% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR

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July 09, 2025 by timesofmalta.com

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Health authorities concerned over ‘toxic, addictive’ nicotine product

Health authorities in Malta are concerned about the rising popularity of unregulated nicotine pouches among young people. The product poses health risks such as addiction and serves as a potential gateway to tobacco use for children. These concerns will be addressed in the forthcoming Tobacco Control Strategy 2025-2030. Nicotine pouches are sold in colourful containers with various flavors and nicotine strengths, commonly found in small stores and bars. While some users believe it helps cut down on smoking, authorities worry about its widespread availability and the misconception that it is less harmful than tobacco. The product's unregulated status raises concerns about its impact on public health.


22.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 82,825 current smokers in Malta.
SOURCE: GSTHR

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July 08, 2025 by theconversation.com

Quitting the quit-aid: people trying to stop vaping nicotine need more support – here are some strategies to help

New Zealand promotes vaping to aid smoking cessation, with a study revealing challenges faced by vapers trying to quit. More than 1,000 surveyed individuals highlighted dependence on vapes, motivating factors to quit, and strategies used for cessation. Factors like health concerns and social influences contribute to relapse triggers, echoing smoking cessation challenges. Support resembling smoking cessation methods is crucial, suggesting tailored approaches for different demographics. While vaping initially served as a smoking substitute, it's now a standalone habit for some. A clinical trial focusing on vaping cessation is underway, emphasizing the need for dedicated support in addressing nicotine addiction.


8.30% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 444,279 current smokers in New Zealand.
SOURCE: GSTHR

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July 08, 2025 by telegraph.co.uk

Britain will follow Australia into a crime storm with the Tobacco and Vapes bill

Australia’s harsh anti-tobacco and anti-vape policies have fueled violent turf wars, with over 230 arson attacks as gangs fight over the black market. The UK may be heading down the same path: illegal vapes and cigarettes are widely sold, taxes are high, and the upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill will ban tobacco for future adults, restrict vape flavours, and raise e-cigarette costs—moves likely to boost black market activity.



July 07, 2025 by gfn.tv

THERE'S NOTHING MORE IMPORTANT IN THE TOBACCO HARM REDUCTION FIELD!

Watch Will Godfrey’s post-#GFN25 reaction, where he underscores the critical importance of effective communication in advancing the conversation around safer nicotine products. His reflections highlight how clear, evidence-based messaging can help shift public perception, inform policy, and support harm reduction efforts on a global scale.



July 07, 2025 by bbc.com

Northampton shop gives up licence over illicit cigarettes

Viva Mini Market voluntarily surrendered its alcohol license after police found over 600 packets of illegal cigarettes and tobacco in a nearby car’s boot linked to the shop in Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council heard allegations of illicit sales. The license surrender followed the discovery of illegal vapes and tobacco at the store. The police seized the illicit goods from a blue BMW near the shop. The committee adjourned as the license had already been given up before the meeting. The store can reapply for a new license to sell alcohol if desired. Police and the former license holder did not attend the hearing.



Blogs

Harry’s blog 127: The truth is still out there.

A free self-guided introduction to tobacco harm reduction from K•A•C aims to raise awareness of the approach among a wider community of policymakers, researchers, health professionals – and adult smokers.

Harry’s blog 126: Tobacco harm reduction and ‘Podsnappery’

Mr Podsnap is a minor character in Charles Dickens’ novel Our Mutual Friend. Mr Podsnap was “well to do, and stood very high in Mr. Podsnap's opinion”. He was noted for his ignorant and wanton dismissal of anything he disagreed with – “I don’t want to know about it; I don’t choose to discuss it; I don’t admit it … I have also said that if [such things] do occur (not that I admit it), the fault lies with the sufferers themselves”.

Harry’s blog 125: Deal with what’s in front of you

The introduction to the government’s 294-page risk assessment of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill which has yet to become law as it passes through the various stages of parliamentary procedure states: