Read articles from Europe

February 05, 2026 by nltimes.nl

A nationwide study in the Netherlands identified that smoking, vaping, and snus use cause around 26,000 emergency department visits annually, with nicotine contributing to symptoms in 7% of patients. Conducted by Dr. Nicole Kraaijvanger from Leiden University Medical Center, the survey included 2,061 patients from 67 emergency departments. Results showed that smoking and vaping were linked to 44% of nicotine-related emergency visits, mostly due to traditional cigarette use. Vaping, considered safer, still led to issues like lung irritation and respiratory conditions. The impact may be underestimated due to severe cases not surveyed, emphasizing the need for preventive measures in healthcare settings.

February 04, 2026 by rfi.fr

France's health agencies warn about the risks of vaping, including heart, lung, and cancer dangers, especially among teenagers. Anses cautions that vaping is not risk-free and can have long-term health effects. While vaping is seen as an alternative to smoking, it is not without risks, with concerns over exposure to toxic substances like aldehydes. Nicotine-containing products may impact cardiovascular health, respiratory systems, and potentially cancer development. The agency advises that vaping, while potentially aiding smoking cessation, should be temporary. An increase in long-term vaping among users is noted, especially among former smokers. Teens are drawn to vaping for various reasons, posing unique challenges. Long-term cancer risks are still being studied, particularly among non-smokers.

February 02, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Germany plans a strict ban on menthol and other cooling additives in e-cigarettes to deter young users. The government cites health risks such as increased nicotine uptake. Critics argue about the lack of evidence on menthol's effects, as it is used in medicines. Manufacturers would need to adjust products or leave the market, facing compliance costs. Tighter rules on labeling and product testing are also included. The ban aims to be in effect within six months, aligning with EU discussions on similar bans. The impact of these measures on harm reduction versus limiting choices for smokers is uncertain.

January 30, 2026 by asiantrader.biz

The UK convenience retail sector sees the tobacco, vape, and nicotine category driving footfall and profits, despite volatility due to shifting policies, consumer behaviors, and the growing illicit trade. While cigarette sales decline, nicotine demand remains strong, leading to opportunities with modern nicotine products like pouches and vape formats. The tobacco market remains stable, though price-driven, and premium segments like roll-your-own continue to lure loyal customers. Nicotine pouches are rapidly expanding, offering retailers operational benefits. Compliance, merchandising, and understanding consumer habits are crucial, especially as the category diversifies and regulations evolve.

January 29, 2026 by politico.eu

The tobacco industry is facing significant lobbying efforts in Europe, with concerns raised about fraudulent responses in public consultations. The European Commission aims to raise tobacco taxes, but some countries find the proposed increase too steep. Additionally, there are plans to regulate e-cigarettes and other nicotine products more strictly in 2026. Boublil highlighted the intense lobbying surrounding tobacco legislation at an event in Brussels, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the face of suspicious activities.

January 27, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Germany is set to ban menthol and cooling additives in e-cigarettes to curb their appeal, especially to young users. The decision is based on the belief that these additives make vaping more attractive and potentially more addictive. Critics argue that evidence supporting increased nicotine uptake is lacking, but the government cites the precautionary principle. The ban would impact both e-cigarettes and refill containers, with estimated compliance costs for the industry.

January 27, 2026 by vapingpost.com

Public health authorities are shifting focus to regulations on oral nicotine pouches as smoking rates decline worldwide. The debate centers on harm reduction benefits over past mistakes, such as youth vaping uptake. US FDA approvals for pouches aim to offer less harmful options to adult smokers. Usage remains low but is growing, particularly among younger adults. Concerns about youth uptake persist, prompting calls for stricter regulations. Sweden shows success in reducing smoking with pouch alternatives. Despite oral health risks, innovation in product design aims to minimize harm.

January 22, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Government-backed schemes promoting vaping have led to a significant drop in smoking rates across UK, with places like Richmond-upon-Thames achieving a 5.3% smoking rate, close to the national "smoke-free" goal. Richmond's successful Stop Smoking Service, offering free vape kits and assistance, has helped over 178 residents quit smoking in a year. This approach is supported by evidence of vaping being less harmful than cigarettes and an effective quitting aid. Similar successful initiatives, like Swap to Stop in Dorset, have helped thousands switch to vaping, showing health and financial benefits. Quitting smoking can save individuals around £285 monthly.

January 21, 2026 by georgiatoday.ge

Georgia aims to be tobacco-free by 2040 but faces challenges due to increasing use of e-cigarettes. Despite progress in reducing tobacco use, consumption rates are high. The Tobacco Control Alliance urges action, emphasizing the need to curb alternative nicotine product use, particularly among the youth. To achieve the tobacco endgame policy, measures include taxing all tobacco equally, joining the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, and implementing plain packaging. Other recommendations involve restricting flavors, raising the legal age for tobacco purchase, and enforcing stricter regulations. Public support for these actions is high, emphasizing the need for political commitment to prioritize public health over tobacco industry interests.

January 21, 2026 by georgiatoday.ge

Georgia aims to be tobacco-free by 2040 but faces challenges due to increasing use of e-cigarettes. Despite progress in reducing tobacco use, consumption rates are high. The Tobacco Control Alliance urges action, emphasizing the need to curb alternative nicotine product use, particularly among the youth. To achieve the tobacco endgame policy, measures include taxing all tobacco equally, joining the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, and implementing plain packaging. Other recommendations involve restricting flavors, raising the legal age for tobacco purchase, and enforcing stricter regulations. Public support for these actions is high, emphasizing the need for political commitment to prioritize public health over tobacco industry interests.