Read articles from Europe

May 28, 2025 by dailymail.co.uk

A report warns that the upcoming disposable vapes ban could lead to 200,000 people reverting to smoking, potentially hindering the UK's progress towards a smoke-free nation. Concerns arise as 45% of vapers use disposable devices, with the highest prevalence among young adults. The ban may prompt 12% of users to switch back to smoking, while the majority plan to switch to other vapes or consider alternative nicotine replacement therapies. Suggestions include stricter regulations on vape products and a national anti-smoking campaign. Urgent action is advised to prevent unintended consequences and prioritize reducing youth vaping rates.

May 28, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com

The European Commission and WHO spread misinformation linking vaping to smoking, hindering harm reduction efforts. Officials like Commissioner Hoekstra falsely equate vaping with smoking, ignoring evidence and discouraging smokers from switching. The WHO director mistakenly claims all tobacco is equally harmful, disregarding vaping's safer profile. This misinformation leads to more deaths and disease by deterring smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. The upcoming EU directive reviews offer a chance to correct this harmful trend with evidence-based regulation. As World Vape Day nears, contrasting celebrations highlight vaping's success in helping millions quit smoking. It's crucial for the EU Commission and WHO to prioritize public health over ideology and end their harmful stance on harm reduction.

May 28, 2025 by thesun.co.uk

Carrying nicotine pouches in France can now lead to five years in jail and a £320,000 fine, stricter penalties than for heroin possession. The law change makes France the toughest European country on pouch control, causing concerns for British tourists. Law experts and campaigners criticize the disproportionate punishments, which affect even athletes and tourists unwittingly breaking the law. Other EU nations have imposed restrictions on pouches, but France's criminalization for personal use is unprecedented. Despite evidence of pouches' safety, the ban has taken effect, contrasting with harm reduction strategies in other countries like Sweden. The law's enforcement challenges and potential for a black market have raised further criticisms.

May 28, 2025 by dutchnews.nl

Dutch teenagers' vaping rate rose to 7.6%, while smoking increased slightly among 12 to 18-year-olds. Conversely, young adults' vaping decreased to 8.6%. The sale of flavored vape liquids has been banned since 2024, but a black market thrives. Instances of severe health issues due to vaping have been reported, prompting government action. The health ministry is considering raising the legal age to 21, criminalizing flavored vape sales, and advocating for stricter EU regulations on e-cigarettes.

May 26, 2025 by bbc.com

Vapers are panic-buying disposable vapes before a UK ban on June 1, stocking up on their favorite flavors. The ban aims to reduce environmental impact and youth vaping. Concerns arise over the transition to rechargeable vapes, impacting ex-smokers like Baroness Fox. Retailers worry about losing customers to cigarettes post-ban. A poll reveals vapers' intentions post-ban, with some planning to stockpile or go back to smoking. Small businesses, heavily reliant on disposable vapes, fear losses. Despite regulations, vapers question the ban's effectiveness and accessibility of alternatives.

May 26, 2025 by spectator.co.uk

In a week, the UK will ban disposable vapes, a policy supported by politicians from different parties. While hailed as a moment of unity, it is seen as a policy disaster. Despite claims of a surge in youth vaping, a study revealed a less dramatic increase mainly among young adults, not children. The ban overlooks the positive impact of vapes in helping smokers quit, as seen in personal experiences like quitting a daily smoking habit.

May 22, 2025 by thejournal.ie

Research shows most teenage vapers had not smoked cigarettes before starting. The average age for starting e-cigarettes was 14. The study by the TobaccoFree Research Institute of Ireland revealed 76% of e-cig users had never tried traditional cigarettes first. While overall smoking rates are down, 13% of 16-year-old girls still smoke. Additionally, 36% had tried a nicotine product, and 24% admitted to trying smoking. Alcohol consumption among 15 to 16-year-olds has decreased, with two-thirds ever trying it and 28% ever getting drunk. The study highlights a rise in alternative tobacco products among teenagers.

May 22, 2025 by luxtimes.lu

A survey in Luxembourg showed a decrease in smoking rates, with 23% of residents smoking in 2024 compared to 27% in 2023. Concerns remain about the rising popularity of alternative nicotine products among young people, such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The Cancer Foundation calls for regulations to protect youth from these products. High levels of passive smoking were also highlighted. Efforts to help residents quit smoking are increasing, with 46% expressing a desire to quit, rising to 62% among 16- to 24-year-olds. A support campaign coinciding with World No Tobacco Day aims to assist those wanting to quit.

May 22, 2025 by thr101.org

Despite joining the FCTC in 2004, Hungary has only seen a slight decrease in smoking rates over two decades. Recent adoption of harm reduction products like heated tobacco has led to significant reductions in cigarette consumption. The WHO's skepticism despite scientific evidence hinders progress. Illicit cigarette trade is growing due to bans on flavored HTPs. Hungary needs to consider the efficacy of harm reduction at COP11 to address the limitations of traditional anti-smoking policies.

May 22, 2025 by polskieradio.pl

Poland passed an amendment to its tobacco control law, gaining wide support. The new legislation bans remote sales, advertising, and minor's access to nicotine-free products. It includes restrictions on e-cigarettes and nicotine pouch sales in specific locations and aligns rules for vaping devices. The bill now awaits Senate review. An additional package may ban more products, pending EU approval.