Read articles from Global

May 06, 2025 by aliveadvocacymovement.com

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) emphasizes the need for risk-proportionate taxation on safer nicotine products in the Asia Pacific region. Existing tax systems, borrowed from Western models, are hindering tobacco harm reduction efforts. CAPHRA warns that high taxes on these products hinder adult smokers from choosing healthier alternatives and protect the cigarette trade. The organization urges governments to tailor taxation to reflect risks accurately, citing successful examples in Japan, the Philippines, and New Zealand. CAPHRA stresses the importance of aligning tax policies with scientific evidence to empower individuals to make informed health choices and avoid creating black markets.

May 05, 2025 by gfn.tv

New research reveals governments are taxing safer nicotine products like cigarettes, sabotaging tobacco harm reduction and blocking smokers from switching. Correcting these policies could accelerate global declines in smoking.

May 05, 2025 by vaping360.com

A federal judge in Iowa blocked the enforcement of the state's PMTA registry law due to a lawsuit by the vaping industry. Judge Rose cited the Supremacy Clause, stating it violates federal authority. The law was halted until the court resolves the case. The Vapor Technology Association is challenging a similar law in North Carolina. The Iowa ruling could impact other states with PMTA laws.

May 05, 2025 by inquirer.net

Harm-reduction tools like e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches help smokers quit effectively, as reported by the World Vapers Alliance (WVA). Scientific studies support that e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than traditional cigarettes. The WVA emphasizes that transitioning to these alternatives can reduce exposure to harmful substances, potentially lowering cancer risk. The WVA advocates for the acceptance of harm reduction strategies by the World Health Organization to aid in smoking cessation. This evidence-based approach has proven successful in countries like Sweden, the UK, and New Zealand. Vaping has been found to be twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapies in quitting smoking. Policymakers are urged to consider a variety of harm-reduction tools to reduce smoking-related diseases and improve public health outcomes.

May 05, 2025 by bbc.com

The text discusses the growing popularity of heated tobacco products like IQOS and their potential health risks. Tobacco companies claim these products are less harmful than cigarettes, but experts warn of health concerns, marketing to youth, and lack of long-term research. Studies show heated tobacco can lead to smoking, emissions may contain harmful chemicals, and dual use may increase health risks. Public health officials urge caution, as these products could encourage more tobacco consumption. Concerns also arise about the marketing tactics targeting young people. Research suggests heated tobacco may not be a safe alternative to smoking. Vigilance is key as these products enter the market.

May 02, 2025 by filtermag.org

State-level PMTA registry bills have posed a threat to vaping by potentially banning most products tied to FDA approval. Some states already shut down vape shops, limiting harm reduction options. Despite concerns, Tennessee and North Dakota revised their bills, shifting focus to US-made products. North Dakota abandoned its proposal due to advocacy efforts, emphasizing American-made items. Fear-based policymaking and misinformation still influence decisions, impacting harm reduction progress. The political shift reflects trade interests more than public health. However, the compromised bills in Tennessee and North Dakota preserve access to nicotine alternatives, pending Governor Lee's approval. Challenges persist for over 650,000 adult vapers in these states amidst ongoing regulatory uncertainties.

May 02, 2025 by medium.com

Governments, WHO, and public interest groups obstruct the shift from deadly combustible cigarettes to safer alternatives like e-cigarettes. The transition, progressing rapidly in countries like Sweden and Japan, offers hope in ending smoking. Despite the reduced harm of new nicotine products, efforts to accelerate the switch face resistance. Influential bodies like WHO and nonprofits like Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids oppose e-cigarettes. Supported by Bloomberg, they hinder progress in low- and middle-income countries by advocating against safer options.

May 02, 2025 by peoplespharmacy.com

For decades, nicotine has been viewed primarily as a harmful and addictive substance — the main reason people become hooked on cigarettes and other tobacco products. Humans have used tobacco for over 12,000 years, whether by smoking, chewing, or sniffing it. In more recent years, pharmaceutical companies have developed nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges to help people quit smoking — all available without a prescription. However, new research is beginning to challenge this one-sided view. Scientists are now exploring whether nicotine might also offer potential therapeutic benefits. Some studies suggest it could help people suffering from long COVID or Alzheimer’s disease. This emerging perspective could change how we understand and use nicotine in modern medicine.

May 01, 2025 by news-medical.net

A study by Karolinska Institutet suggests higher cigarette taxes in low and middle-income countries could reduce child mortality, benefiting the poorest children. The research indicates that implementing WHO's recommended 75% tax could have potentially saved over 280,000 children's lives. The study analyzed data from 94 countries between 2008-2020, showing how increased cigarette taxes can improve child survival across all socioeconomic groups. Lead author Olivia Bannon emphasizes the importance of raising cigarette taxes to protect children's health, particularly in vulnerable populations. The study highlights the need to combat tobacco industry interference to implement effective tobacco control policies globally.

May 01, 2025 by news-medical.net

Nicotine pouch use doubled among U.S. high school students from 2023 to 2024, with 5.4% reporting usage. This emerging trend raises concerns, mirroring the past rise of flavored e-cigarettes. The FDA's decision to allow marketing of Zyn pouches to adults is controversial, given their popularity among teens. Research shows a demographic pattern favoring white males in rural areas. Both nicotine pouch and e-cigarette use increased in 2024, with more teens engaging in dual use. Long-term health effects are uncertain, but addiction risks persist. Preventative measures and regulation are crucial to address this public health issue. Tracking trends and evaluating policies are essential for targeted prevention strategies.