Read articles from Europe

July 25, 2024 by thecable.ng

Harnessing Tobacco Harm Reduction: Lessons from Sweden and Japan for A Healthier Nigeria

In the early 2000s, Sweden had and adopted the concepts and ideals behind Tobacco Harm Reduction when it introduced Snus, a smokeless tobacco product that has since become a national phenomenon. Snus is placed under the upper lip and does not require smoking. Its popularity in Sweden has contributed to a significant public health triumph. Today, over 20% of Swedish men (…)

July 24, 2024 by vape1024.com

Poland Sets New Rules For Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes Starting 2025

The Polish Ministry of Health plans to submit the bill to parliament in September 2024. The bill aims to regulate nicotine-free e-cigarettes and is expected to come into effect on January 1, 2025. Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna has expressed confidence in the bill’s passage and timely enactment.

July 24, 2024 by vape1024.com

Poland Sets New Rules For Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes Starting 2025

The Polish Ministry of Health plans to submit the bill to parliament in September 2024. The bill aims to regulate nicotine-free e-cigarettes and is expected to come into effect on January 1, 2025. Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna has expressed confidence in the bill’s passage and timely enactment.

July 24, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

CAPHRA Call to Asia Pacific Governments

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) is urging governments across the Asia Pacific region to follow New Zealand's lead and allow the sale of oral nicotine products as part of a comprehensive tobacco harm reduction strategy.

July 23, 2024 by vape1024.com

Spain’s Major Crackdown on Illegal E-Cigarettes in Seville

On July 22, 2024, the Spanish Civil Guard conducted a special operation named “Humeros” in the province of Seville, seizing 171,407 illegal e-cigarette products. These products were primarily disposable e-cigarettes containing nicotine and failed to comply with the relevant regulations.

July 19, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

Industry Laments Romania’s New Vape Tax

Tobacco harm reduction advocates in Romania criticize the new excise tax on nicotine-free e-liquids and vapes, as it may deter smokers from safer options. Vaping companies, like e-Potion in Sibiu, fear the tax will strain consumers and harm businesses. Despite the need for regulation, e-Potion stresses that public health should not be compromised. The company plans to assist customers and lessen the tax impact. Romania has tightened regulations on smoking alternatives, including banning electronic cigarette ads and flavored heated tobacco products to comply with EU rules by October 2023.

July 18, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill included in Kings Speech

The UK Government, led by Keir Starmer, plans to implement a generational smoking ban and stricter regulations on vapes and nicotine products. The Tobacco and Vapes bill, part of the King's Speech, aims to raise the legal age for cigarette purchases, control vape sales, and regulate product features. Initially proposed by the Conservatives but delayed, this legislative agenda now pursued by Labour Health Secretary Wes Streeting aligns with public health groups advocating for informed consumer choices. Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty supports the bill, emphasizing the health benefits of a smoke-free nation.

July 18, 2024 by news-medical.net

Sharp rise in long-term vaping among adults in England, study finds

The long-term vaping trend in England has significantly risen since 2021, with one in ten adults reporting vaping for over six months by 2023, especially among young individuals. The increase is associated with the popularity of disposable e-cigarettes. Usage grew among both smokers and non-smokers, with men initially vaping more than women. The shift towards disposable devices raises concerns about the environment. Observational study results suggest regulations are needed to curb youth vaping, without discouraging smokers from using e-cigarettes to quit. Prohibiting disposable vapes might not greatly impact vaping rates, but addressing their appeal through marketing restrictions could promote vaping as a smoking cessation aid.

July 16, 2024 by nnalliance.org

NNA writes to Labour Health Secretary

The New Nicotine Alliance represents current and future consumers of low-risk alternatives to cigarettes, such as vaping products, nicotine pouches, and smokeless and heated tobacco. We have no relevant conflicts of interest. As representatives of the stakeholders with the most at stake, we wish to offer some advice on approaching the issue of tobacco and vaping.

July 16, 2024 by filtermag.org

In Sweden, Where Tobacco Deaths Fell Dramatically, Nicotine Isn’t the Enemy

Approximately 25% of Swedes use nicotine products like snus, resulting in 44% fewer tobacco-related deaths per capita compared to the rest of Europe. Nicotine, not the primary cause of cancer, is misunderstood by healthcare professionals and the public. Co-author Karl Fagerström emphasizes the harm reduction benefits of embracing snus and nicotine pouches. These smoke-free alternatives lower health risks, with Sweden on track to become the first "smoke-free" country. Tax changes in Sweden support the use of snus over cigarettes, highlighting the government's recognition of the products' role in reducing smoking-related harms. The global shift towards harm reduction could save lives by promoting safer nicotine consumption practices.