Nicotine Science and Policy

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon disagree on a tax break for Philip Morris' heated tobacco product. Costello's plan to shift smokers to heated products was impacted by regulations on vaping devices. Luxon is not familiar with the products but supports childproofing smoking alternatives. Costello and Luxon clash on whether the tax cut benefits Philip Morris. Costello released five documents of purported independent advice on heated tobacco. Treasury warns of potential health risks and uncertain impacts of the tax break. Various studies on smoking alternatives and industry tactics are highlighted.

Fewer than one in 10 (9.8%) young adults in the UK currently smoke cigarettes, the data found. This is a steep decline from records 12 years ago, which found that a quarter of 18 to 24-year-olds were smokers. In addition, only 11.9% of UK adults smoked cigarettes in 2023 – down from 20% in 2011, and the lowest level since the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) records began in 2011. The data also found that vaping continues to rise, with a 9.8% of adults aged 16 and over (5.1 million) vaping in 2023. Hazel Cheeseman chief executive of public health charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). Following the release of this data, she said: ‘Today’s figures are further proof that the country is ready to be smoke-free.

Kenyan stakeholders push for higher tobacco taxes to combat youth consumption and health risks. Celine Awuor advocates for increased taxes to deter young people from starting smoking habits early. Current cigarette taxes in Kenya fall below WHO recommendations. Challenges exist in taxing new tobacco products like Oral Nicotine Pouches and e-cigarettes due to weak tax regulations. The Tobacco Control Act of 2007 needs updating to cover emerging smokeless products. Dr. Naom Shaban emphasizes the need for higher taxes to deter tobacco use. Illegal tobacco products pose a challenge, prompting collaboration between the Tobacco Control Board and Kenya Revenue Authority.

Health Minister Mark Butler's plan to ban recreational vaping ended abruptly when a Greens amendment allowed vapes to be sold over the counter in pharmacies from October 1, 2024. Originally aimed at reducing teenage vaping, the restrictive laws had forced legal vapes out of stores, increasing the risk of black market purchases. Despite concerns over unapproved products, the government's move has faced backlash, with calls for easier access to prescribed vapes. In the midst of controversy, the benefits of vaping as a safer alternative to smoking, embraced by New Zealand, were highlighted, signaling ongoing debates on vaping regulations in Australia.

Martin Cullip, a respected voice on tobacco and vaping policies, transitioned from an anonymous libertarian blog to a public advocate due to concerns about the government targeting his transport business. His accidental switch from smoking to vaping led him to fight against anti-harm reduction public health advocates. He believes public health groups demonize smokers and vapers, aiming to remove the enjoyment factor. Cullip differentiates between sincere lifesavers embracing harm reduction and profit-driven, authoritarian figures. He emphasizes the importance of choice and the negative impact of stigmatization in public health campaigns.

The popularity of vaping is on the rise, especially among young people. While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, it can still have negative effects on health. The UK government is tightening regulations on vapes, aiming to curb underage use and reduce environmental impact. Vaping is recommended as a smoking cessation tool, with face-to-face support doubling success rates. The new rules include a ban on disposable vapes by 2025 and taxing vaping products by 2026. Labour supports these measures to promote a smoke-free generation and protect public health. Efforts are also being made to address the environmental impact of disposable vapes, as recycling rates remain low.

Dr. Round emphasized the importance of Tobacco Harm Reduction at the GTNF event, showcasing Omni™ as a tool to engage stakeholders and promote science-based discussions. Omni™ advocates for switching smokers to safer alternatives, citing global examples like Sweden. The GTNF theme highlighted responsible innovation in THR and nicotine products, stressing the need for smart regulations and enforcement to prevent youth access to harmful products. Discussions also addressed misconceptions about nicotine risks and the role of regulatory frameworks in promoting safer smokeless alternatives.