Read articles from United States of America

May 10, 2024 by wyrk.com

Buffalo, New York, is considering banning the sale of menthol cigarettes, part of a broader national push supported by President Biden. Smoking cessation is challenging, with benefits of quitting outweighing the habit. There are debates on the government's stance on public health, with calls for a complete ban on cigarettes in New York State. Starting smoking with menthol products is common among youth, with potential long-term health impacts.

May 09, 2024 by theblaze.com

FDA Commissioner Robert Califf faced tough questions from the House Oversight Committee, addressing FDA's actions on various products. The session highlighted delays in recognizing tobacco harm reduction and the FDA's push for more user fees on tobacco. Califf hesitated to fully endorse e-cigarettes for harm reduction, despite acknowledging their reduced toxicity. The FDA's inconsistent stance on risk continuum and authorization of few e-cigarette products are concerning. Repetitive rejection of vapor product applications raises questions about prioritizing youth over adult smokers. Congressional intervention may be needed to align FDA actions with reducing tobacco-related harm effectively.

May 09, 2024 by medicalxpress.com

Oregon Health & Science University researchers found that using cannabis and nicotine together during pregnancy increases risks for poor newborn outcomes. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed infants faced higher chances of small gestational size, preterm delivery, and death. Data from over 3 million pregnant patients showed a fourfold increase in infant death risk for users of both substances compared to non-users. Health care providers are urged to counsel patients on quitting either substance to reduce risks. The research aims to inform clinical recommendations and interventions for healthier pregnancies amid ongoing investigations on combined substance usage effects.

May 07, 2024 by medpagetoday.com

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.

May 03, 2024 by fingerlakes1.com

Swedish snus, a cultural icon from Sweden, offers a unique nicotine experience spreading globally, including the U.S. Known for its rich history and innovative varieties, such as traditional and tobacco-free options, Swedish snus appeals to a diverse audience for its quality and authenticity. As it gains popularity abroad, especially in the American market, Swedish snus showcases a blend of tradition and innovation, positioning it as a sought-after product in the evolving global consumer landscape. The future looks promising for Swedish snus, with growing interest in international products and changing consumer preferences driving its potential expansion and integration into daily routines worldwide.

May 01, 2024 by 9news.com.au

The US DEA plans to reclassify marijuana as less harmful, recognizing its medical uses and lower potential for abuse. This proposal, pending review, would move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, following health department advice. President Biden supports this change, aiming to right past convictions. DEA's move aims to align with public sentiment towards marijuana, increasingly accepted and decriminalized. However, critics warn of risks, such as marijuana's possible gateway effect. The shift could impact the industry economically, improving research opportunities and reducing tax burdens.

April 30, 2024 by fda.gov

On April 30, 2024, the FDA, DOJ, and U.S. Marshals Service seized over $700,000 worth of unauthorized e-cigarette products in Alhambra, CA, mainly from California-based distributors. The enforcement aims to combat the illegal sale of flavored e-cigarettes, including brands enticing to youth. This joint action was the first seizure involving tobacco products by the agencies. FDA continues to crack down on unauthorized e-cigarettes across the supply chain, having issued numerous warning letters and penalties. They have granted marketing authorization to some legal tobacco-flavored e-cigarette products in the U.S.

April 25, 2024 by realclearhealth.com

FDA Commissioner Califf spoke at a hearing, incorrectly labeling tobacco harm reduction as an industry term. Dr. Rodu challenges this, advocating for harm reduction to save the 480,000 American lives lost yearly due to cigarettes. He argues for safer nicotine alternatives, stressing the need for realistic public health policies over prohibition. Rodu emphasizes the parallels between nicotine and caffeine, calling for a shift towards evidence-based strategies to combat smoking-related illnesses. The narrative around nicotine's risks is critiqued, highlighting the potential benefits of harm reduction. Ultimately, the focus should be on saving lives by providing adult smokers with choices to quit and lead healthier lives.

April 23, 2024 by regulatorwatch.com

Does the regulator responsible for overseeing tobacco products in the U.S. believe in the practice of tobacco harm reduction? According to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, the answer is a resounding no. Appearing before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Califf repeatedly dismissed THR as an “industry term” and refused to answer questions on the topic. Joining us today to discuss the ramifications of the commissioner’s testimony is Tony Abboud, executive director of the Vapor Technology Association. We review informed questioning by U.S. House Reps and take a deep dive into problematic responses by the commissioner.

April 18, 2024 by townhall.com

Nearly 70 House Representatives urge the Biden Administration to speed up approval processes for smokefree products, highlighting their potential to reduce harm. Republicans emphasize the FDA's slow authorization for safer products compared to traditional tobacco. Delays benefit deadly cigarettes over innovation. Democrats' resistance contradicts public health interests, hindering harm reduction efforts. Misinformation fuels their push for restrictions on products proven to drive down smoking rates. Calls for informed decisions and equal access to alternatives aim to empower smokers.