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September 26, 2025 by thecritic.co.uk

The spread of misinformation about vaping risks is described as a major public health disaster, fueled by myths like “popcorn lung,” the EVALI scare, and the misconception that nicotine causes cancer. Instead of correcting false beliefs, public health figures are accused of reinforcing them. The UK government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which allows vapes to be regulated like cigarettes, is seen as worsening the problem by suggesting their risks are similar. Critics argue that some public health academics and activists undermine vaping despite acknowledging its benefits.

September 25, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

UKVIA Director General John Dunne warned that putting vapes in plain, cigarette-style packaging could drive ex-smokers back to cigarettes. He argued that while studies claim plain packaging reduces youth appeal, it risks reinforcing myths that vaping is as harmful as smoking. Dunne stressed that vaping is far less risky and the most effective way to quit smoking. He also pointed to evidence from the UK, Canada, and the US showing plain packaging reduces adult appeal and can increase smoking rates. Citing that 14% of former smokers have already returned to cigarettes after the disposable vape ban, he cautioned against further restrictive laws.

September 24, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The World Vapers' Alliance has criticized Spain’s new Anti-Tobacco Bill for treating all alternative nicotine products the same as traditional cigarettes. The bill extends smoking bans to vaping, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches in places like terraces, beaches, stadiums, universities, bus stops, and some private vehicles, despite evidence that these products are significantly less harmful. The Alliance called the bill “shocking,” arguing it ignores scientific evidence and international examples, such as Sweden and the UK, where harm reduction strategies have helped lower smoking rates.

September 24, 2025 by smokefreesweden.org

The passage highlights that, despite decades of work and major financial investment, smoking continues to kill over 7 million people worldwide each year, and progress in reducing it has stalled in many countries. It argues that current methods are clearly insufficient, and a new strategy is urgently needed. The report suggests that embracing safer nicotine alternatives (SNAs) offers a practical and evidence-based solution, leading to sharp declines in smoking, improved public health, and reduced healthcare expenses.

September 24, 2025 by dorsetecho.co.uk

Varenicline and cytisine, free on prescription, aid in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Approved by the MHRA, they enhance the success of quitting and are available in Dorset and Bournemouth, supporting the goal of a smokefree generation by 2030. Personalized consultations with pharmacists and regular check-ins provide valuable support. Councillors highlight the benefits of these medicines, especially for those who struggled to quit before, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step towards a smoke-free life. Local stop smoking services now offer a wider range of tools, increasing the chances of success in quitting smoking.

September 24, 2025 by slguardian.org

Polish President Nawrocki sparked debate after appearing to take an item at the UN ceremony, raising concerns over his nicotine pouch use. MP Giertych questioned Nawrocki's actions, hinting at substance abuse. Despite passing a drug test, doubts persist over Nawrocki's behavior, including an incident during a debate. Critics demand closer oversight, while supporters advise against quick judgments based on limited footage, adding complexity to Nawrocki's presidency.

September 24, 2025 by polskieradio.pl

The incident involving Polish President Nawrocki placing a nicotine pouch in his mouth was captured during a UN ceremony. Critics highlighted the irony of him opposing health education while using tobacco products. The president had previously withdrawn his son from health classes, causing debate. Education Minister Nowacka stressed the importance of teaching addiction prevention and healthy habits in schools. Poland sees around 67,000 smoking-related deaths annually, equivalent to a medium-sized city population, emphasizing the detrimental impact of tobacco use. This incident raises questions about public health, education, and the president's stance on these issues.

September 23, 2025 by spiked-online.com

The UK government plans to ban vaping in public places, claiming health risks without scientific evidence. Public Health England emphasized the negligible harm of secondhand vaping in 2015 and 2018. Recent research also supports this, finding minimal health risks for bystanders. The proposed ban lacks evidence of significant risks, potentially hindering smokers from switching to safer alternatives. Critics argue it's a disproportionate restriction that harms harm-reduction efforts and reinforces negative perceptions of vaping. Public health policies should be evidence-based. Banning vaping without proven risks undermines harm reduction and individual freedoms, contrary to the government's successful smoking cessation programs. This overcautious approach may perpetuate smoking and stigmatize vaping.

September 23, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Ireland is set to introduce a tax on vape liquid, with a levy of 50c per milliliter planned to start by the end of the year. Measures to implement the tax, aimed at curbing youth vaping, are in advanced stages. The government is also increasing restrictions on vaping, including bans on sales to those under 18 and plans to prohibit disposable vapes along with stricter rules on flavors and advertising. Enforcement of regulations is crucial, with concerns raised about retail compliance and the need for effective prosecution of offenders.

September 23, 2025 by gfn.tv

Portugal is celebrated for its progressive drug policy, yet tobacco harm reduction remains sidelined. At GFN 2025 in Warsaw, Adriana Curado of GAT in Lisbon shows how nicotine became “the forgotten substance.” From her own move away from smoking to a pioneering vaping project with people who use drugs and those experiencing homelessness, Curado exposes public health contradictions, the persistence of stigma, and why safer nicotine options matter—especially for marginalized groups.