Read articles from Europe

June 05, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Global health expert Dr. Konstantinos Farsalinos advocates for governments to embrace safer nicotine products, emphasizing that combustion, not nicotine, causes smoking-related deaths. He highlights Sweden's success in reducing smoking rates through alternatives like snus and e-cigarettes. Dr. Farsalinos stresses the importance of flavors in aiding smoking cessation and warns against banning them. He urges policymakers to prioritize evidence-based regulations and support smokers in switching to safer options. Countries like New Zealand and the UK have seen significant reductions in smoking rates due to vaping. On World Vape Day, Dr. Farsalinos urges a shift towards science-based approaches to make nicotine consumption safer and save lives.

June 05, 2025 by daily-pouch.com

The Irish government and media are creating a hostile environment for vaping, prompting consideration of nicotine pouches as an alternative. Ireland's transformative relationship with the EU faced challenges during the financial crisis, revealing issues with the union's governance. Vaping policies align with broader EU/WHO initiatives against harm reduction, with restrictions harming public health efforts. The government's failure to support vaping led citizens to seek alternative solutions. Nicotine pouches could offer a harm reduction option, though government regulation poses a threat. Advocates urge Irish vapers to explore this alternative and prepare for potential regulatory battles. Misguided anti-vaping sentiments hinder public health progress, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making and advocacy.

June 04, 2025 by imt.ie

Smoking is a major health issue among young adult men in Ireland, with high prevalence rates leading to preventable diseases and mortality. Despite a decline, smoking remains more common among men, particularly aged 25-34. Men face barriers to quitting like perceived invulnerability and social influences. Smoking increases risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, and reproductive issues. Pharmacological options like NRT, varenicline, bupropion, and cytisine are effective, with NRT available through the HSE. Behavioral interventions and support, such as counseling and digital tools, are crucial for cessation success. Combining pharmacological and behavioral support improves quitting rates. A comprehensive approach tailored to young men is essential for successful smoking cessation in Ireland.

June 04, 2025 by ethra.co

Scientists and public health experts advocate for EU tax policies supporting safer alternatives to smoking, like nicotine products, to reduce harm. Concerns were raised over potential tax hikes on these products. ETHRA, representing millions of European consumers, refuted claims that vaping is as harmful as smoking. Inaccurate information from EU policymakers was criticized. Increasing prices of safer alternatives could hinder efforts to make Europe tobacco-free by 2040. Commissioner Hoekstra's comments on vaping were disputed. Science, not misinformation, should shape tobacco policies. Expert-backed concerns were outlined in a letter to the EU Commission.

June 04, 2025 by tobaccointelligence.com

Proposed legislation in Poland aims to ban flavoured nicotine pouches and disposable vapes to reduce youth access to nicotine. Similar moves in France and potential restrictions in Luxembourg, Ireland, and Spain indicate a trend towards stricter regulations on such products in Europe. Critics argue that bans could fuel black market sales, while supporters emphasize public health benefits. Sweden, with its harm reduction approach allowing snus sales, contrasts with Poland's stance. The ongoing debate raises questions about the future direction of nicotine policy across European countries.

June 03, 2025 by westminsterextra.co.uk

A ban on single-use disposable vaping devices in the UK has led to panic-buying and discounts on products. This legislation aims to reduce nicotine addiction and fire hazards. However, concerns remain about enforcement and potential loopholes. Groups suggest licensing vape sellers to ensure compliance. There are worries about a return to smoking and the attractiveness of new vape products. Despite efforts to crack down on illegal sales, shops in Westminster have been found with suspected counterfeit and stolen goods. Authorities are increasing checks on vape sales to uphold the ban and protect consumers.

June 02, 2025 by lbc.co.uk

Single-use vapes are now banned in the UK to reduce litter and prevent youth nicotine addiction. The government aims to promote reusable vapes for smoking cessation. Retailers faced a sudden ban, but reusable vapes with refillable containers and rechargeable batteries remain legal. Disposable vapes are prohibited, impacting users and sellers. Nicotine intake from vaping is low, with the main health concern being nicotine addiction. Cannabis edibles like gummies are illegal in the UK due to their classification as a class B drug, associated with negative side effects.

June 02, 2025 by euronews.com

Countries such as Italy, Greece, and Romania, which have lower tax rates, oppose the proposal to increase taxes on nicotine products. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the EU to tax vapes and nicotine pouches. Last week, 15 finance and economy ministers urged EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to publish the long-delayed Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD), arguing that the current rules are outdated and don't cover newer nicotine products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. The revision was initially proposed in 2022 as part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan.

May 29, 2025 by filtermag.org

European Commissioner Varhelyi's misleading statements on vaping's health risks have sparked criticism. Advocates urge him to consult experts, as anti-vape policies unfold in the EU. Varhelyi's claims of vaping being as harmful as smoking and causing "popcorn lung" are refuted by scientific evidence. The European Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates express concerns over misinformation influencing regulations that restrict safer nicotine products. They emphasize the need for policy decisions based on facts, not myths. Varhelyi's role includes spearheading initiatives to reduce cancer rates linked to smoking in the EU, despite vaping's proven role in smoking cessation. Requests for a meeting to address misinformation have been made, aiming to safeguard public health decisions.

May 29, 2025 by bnn-news.com

Wealthy EU countries are urging the European Commission to revisit plans for a minimum tax on e-cigarettes and raise excise duties on tobacco products, proposed by Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. The plan faces opposition from countries with lower tax rates and those investing in innovative tobacco. Italy warns against hindering innovation, as sharp tax hikes could increase smuggling. Concerns are raised over proposed high taxes on new tobacco products lacking EU regulation. The push for a unified EU policy on alternative tobacco products is suggested to address rising smuggling issues. Drastic tax hikes may not be suitable now, as they could strain resources and enforcement without substantial benefits.