Read articles from Europe

April 01, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

The University of Bath's Tobacco Control Research Group studied industry submissions on the 2023/24 Tobacco and Vapes Bill, proposing a ban on tobacco sales to those born after 2009. Industry tactics to resist regulations were revealed, including opposition to the ban for lacking evidence and claims of harm to retailers. Tobacco companies pushed for weaker restrictions and exemptions. Despite claims of change, they continue to resist public health measures. The 2023/4 Bill was dropped, but a more ambitious version was later introduced. Researchers warn of industry pushback against strict policies and emphasize the importance of resisting industry influence to protect public health and future generations.

March 31, 2025 by thelocal.at

A recent report on Austrian teens shows a shift towards healthier choices, with less smoking and alcohol consumption. However, there is an increase in e-cigarette and nicotine pouch use. Mental health issues are prevalent, with one in four teens reporting low well-being. Substance use is linked to psychological stress, social media overuse, and gaming. The survey also revealed an increase in teens avoiding alcohol completely. Conducted on 7,735 ninth and tenth-grade students in Austria, the study is part of a larger European research project.

March 31, 2025 by filtermag.org

Research shows underground markets are growing for nicotine vaping products in the UK and US. The UK previously regulated products for safety, while the US lacks authorization, leading to illicit markets and confusion. The FDA has enforced restrictions, pushing legal retailers to pull unauthorized products. Illicit vendors profit, risking consumer health and accessibility. In the UK, anticipation of bans has already driven sales underground. To combat this, the FDA should approve quality products swiftly. The UK should reconsider bans and focus on legal, quality products to avoid increased smoking rates. Legal availability and consumer-preferred products are crucial for public health and harm reduction.

March 31, 2025 by youtube.com

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we're joined by the one and only Ivan Bik – a renowned podcaster and outspoken advocate for harm reduction. Ivan brings his signature energy and insight as we dive into the current state of THR in the Netherlands. What’s happening? How are consumers reacting to flavor restrictions? What does the future look like for harm reduction in the Netherlands?

March 27, 2025 by irishnews.com

MPs have approved the Tobacco and Vapes Bill in the UK, aiming to create a smoke-free generation by gradually raising the legal smoking age and regulating vaping products to protect youth. The bill bans under-18s from buying nicotine products, restricts vape advertising, and prohibits smoking near schools and hospitals. The proposal also includes plans to regulate vape packaging and flavors to prevent appeal to children. Despite opposition, the bill passed in the House of Commons, focusing on reducing smoking and youth vaping. The bill will face further review in the House of Lords.

March 27, 2025 by inquirer.net

French oncologist David Khayat advocates for harm reduction strategies in tobacco control, arguing that alternative smoking methods reduce cancer risk by minimizing exposure to harmful substances. He highlights the inefficacy of traditional anti-smoking policies and emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks supporting smoke-free technologies. Khayat stresses the importance of balancing smoking cessation efforts with harm reduction, aiming to transition smokers away from cigarettes. He criticizes the World Health Organization's opposition to harm reduction and urges policymakers to consider evidence supporting reduced-risk products. As global discussions on tobacco control evolve, the focus on harm reduction is expected to intensify at the upcoming WHO conference in November.

March 21, 2025 by taxfoundation.org

The update to the EU's Tobacco Excise Tax Directive seeks harm reduction through taxing safer products less, potentially reducing smoking rates and illicit markets. Sweden's success in embracing alternative tobacco products and reducing smoking rates is a model for other EU countries to follow. ATPs like vaping and snus offer less harmful nicotine consumption options, driving public health benefits globally. However, stringent restrictions in some EU countries hinder harm reduction. An updated Directive should support less harmful products through reduced taxes, promoting public health. International businesses could shift focus to safer products, influencing global health trends positively. The EU must lead by example in harm reduction for tobacco policy worldwide.

March 21, 2025 by eutoday.net

The EU faces pressure from anti-vaping advocates to impose strict regulations on e-cigarettes. The Dutch Health Minister urged the EU to take decisive action, including flavor restrictions. Various EU countries are adopting their own vaping regulations, with a trend towards flavor bans. However, studies show flavor bans may increase harm by driving consumers to the black market. Lessons from regions like the US, Canada, and Australia demonstrate the unintended consequences of flavor bans. To achieve harm reduction goals, the EU should adopt a balanced vaping policy that supports smokers in transitioning away from tobacco. Embracing harm reduction strategies, like those in Sweden and Norway, can lead to a successful tobacco-free future.

March 20, 2025 by theguardian.com

Smoking rates in parts of England have recently risen after nearly two decades of decline. Research from University College London showed a 10% increase in smoking in southern England from 2020 to 2024. The study suggested higher smoking rates among women and potential relapses among quitters. Despite progress in the north, concerns about funding cuts for smoking cessation programs were raised. Efforts to tackle smoking are seen as crucial, with calls for equal access to stop smoking services across the country. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining momentum to achieve a smoke-free UK.

March 20, 2025 by vaping360.com

Multiple European countries are imposing bans and restrictions on nicotine pouches, while combustible cigarettes remain unrestricted. Tobacco control groups claim nicotine pouches are a ploy by the tobacco industry to hook young users. Despite being safer than smoking, pouches face scrutiny. The European Union lacks specific regulations for pouches, leading to member states creating disparate laws. Some countries, like Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, have banned pouch sales, while others implement limits on nicotine strength and flavors. The EU's failure to address pouch regulation contrasts with widespread cigarette availability, undermining harm reduction efforts and public health benefits.