Stories

Professor Emily Banks, an advocate for stricter vape regulations, admitted at an Australian senate inquiry that there are no known deaths directly caused by vaping, unlike cigarettes which claim half of all regular smokers globally. She highlighted concerns about nicotine addiction and the targeting of children by vape companies. Banks emphasized that the long-term health effects of vaping, particularly regarding cancer and cardiovascular disease, are still unknown due to its recent emergence. The debate continues on the safety and potential harm reduction of vaping compared to tobacco smoking, given the lack of concrete evidence. Meanwhile, 24,000 Australians die annually from smoking, prompting calls for vaping as a potential cessation aid.

Kenya's Ministry of Health is seeking public input on a plan requiring cigarette manufacturers to include graphic health warnings covering 80% of packaging. The initiative aims to educate about tobacco risks, discourage use, and reduce consumption. With 8.6% of Kenyans smoking in 2020, the government aims to cut this to under 5% by 2025. However, the tobacco industry argues the plan fails to differentiate between cigarettes and safer nicotine products like pouches. They advocate for separate regulations for tobacco and nicotine items.

Zyn, a small nicotine pouch by Philip Morris, is sparking debates on the benefits and risks of new tobacco products. The pouch contains nicotine powder and flavors and is aimed at adult users. While Zyn is viewed as potentially less harmful than cigarettes, health risks persist. FDA is reviewing its market authorization amidst concerns about underage use. Limited studies suggest Zyn may not effectively help smokers quit. Despite low youth usage, worries exist about its popularity among teens. The FDA is monitoring the situation closely. Researchers point out similarities between Zyn and other cessation aids, though efficacy remains uncertain. Philip Morris aims for FDA authorization and possibly reduced-risk status.

Although there have been steady declines in smoking prevalence rates in most high-income countries, tobacco smoking remains a leading cause of premature death and preventable disease globally(Di Cesare et al., 2013). In some low-and middle-income countries, with growing economies and more liberalattitudes, the number of smokers is rising. Globally, while the total percentage of people smoking is decreasing, because of the growing population the total number of people smoking is still increasing and forecast to continue.

Researchers found that most sponsored Instagram posts related to e-cigarettes promoted their use to adolescents or portrayed them positively, violating FDA regulations. The study analyzed 51 posts with influencers and vape ambassadors. Despite warnings, social media exposure is linked to increased e-cigarette use among youth. Current regulatory policies are insufficient in limiting such content. Educational efforts should employ engaging marketing techniques to deter youth from e-cigarette use. Healthcare organizations must provide accurate information on platforms like Instagram to counter misleading messages. This study underscores the importance of addressing the spread of pro-e-cigarette messaging on social media.

India banned e-cigarettes in 2019 following WHO guidelines, influenced by tobacco control groups and economic factors. Despite court challenges, the ban was supported by the government, significant tobacco donations, and lack of local research. The decision was driven by political and financial interests rather than public health, denying over 100 million smokers access to safer nicotine consumption methods. The regulatory pathway favored by courts was ignored, leading to a ban that benefitted the tobacco industry. Juul's entry into India and foreign expertise also played a role in the outcome, as local industry voices were absent from the debate.

Spain approved a new anti-smoking plan focusing on more smoke-free areas, higher cigarette prices, and stricter vaping regulations. The plan aims to increase cigarette prices, expand smoke-free zones, and tighten vaping rules to align with tobacco products. The Ministry of Health plans to ban single-use vapes and increase fines for littering, while also introducing plain packaging for tobacco and e-cigarettes. The laws will reform smoking regulations with some changes expected to take effect by the end of the year. The plan does not ban smoking on terraces, campuses, or beaches yet, but it lays the groundwork for potential future restrictions.