Read articles from Europe

October 10, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

Ireland's new tax of 50 cents per milliliter on vaping products is concerning health experts who advocate for harm reduction. The high levy surpasses the EU average and could deter smokers from switching to safer alternatives like vaping, unlike Sweden's successful approach. Sweden has significantly reduced smoking rates by promoting alternatives like snus and vapes. Irish public opinion is against the tax increase, with fears it may lead consumers to buy products from abroad. The tax, expected to be €2.50 per 10ml in Ireland, accompanies a ban on disposable vapes and flavors. This decision contrasts with Sweden's progress towards becoming smoke-free.

October 08, 2024 by thespiritsbusiness.com

The UK hospitality sector is concerned about a potential ban on smoking in outdoor areas due to significant economic impacts. Various industry leaders express worries about how such a ban would affect businesses, including pubs, nightclubs, hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Discussions are ongoing, with calls for a national debate before implementing any legislation. Some believe that such a ban could lead to job losses and harm businesses already facing challenges. Different perspectives exist, such as concerns about enforcement and suggestions for smoke-free zones. The industry seeks consultation and practical solutions amidst debates on public health and regulatory burdens.

October 08, 2024 by theguardian.com

A study from the University of Bath found that seven vaporizers claiming to have cannabis actually contained dangerous synthetic cannabinoids. These compounds were linked to adverse effects, including severe withdrawal symptoms. Synthetic cannabinoids, illegal in the UK and US, are cheaper to produce than natural cannabis and present serious health risks. Regulation in the uncontrolled hemp market is lacking, leading to contaminated products. Efforts are being made to regulate and ensure safety in the industry, as even legal cannabis products may pose risks. Consumers are urged to buy from authorized dispensaries for safer options. Some brands are taking steps to vet and educate consumers on hemp product safety.

October 08, 2024 by smokefreesweden.org

Proposed Danish regulations may effectively ban 90% of nicotine pouches, pushing ex-smokers back to cigarettes, warn experts. Restrictions include flavours and capping nicotine levels far below international standards. Oral nicotine pouches are a safer alternative to smoking, with Sweden's successful harm reduction model showing a 55% smoking decrease. Denmark aims to outlaw 'king-size' cigarettes but limits nicotine in pouches. Experts urge for a progressive approach like Sweden's, emphasizing the importance of reduced-risk products in combating tobacco use. The proposals risk making pouches less appealing than cigarettes, hindering smokers' transition to safer options.

October 07, 2024 by ecigintelligence.com

Cancer Research UK is cautioning against a disposable ban in the UK, fearing negative health perceptions on vaping. They urge the government to address misconceptions and ensure smokers are not deterred from switching. The charity supports actions to reduce youth vaping appeal but questions the effectiveness of a disposable ban alone. Concerns include impacts on dual users and lower socioeconomic groups. They emphasize the need for cessation support and affordable alternatives. Research on the ban's health consequences is advised, with a long-term evaluation suggested. Cancer Research UK stresses the importance of balancing youth protection and smoking cessation efforts in vaping policy decisions.

October 07, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

Ireland's new high tax on e-cigarettes, far above the EU average, has been criticized by health experts for hindering the fight against tobacco. In contrast, Sweden's low-tax approach to safer alternatives like vaping has led to significant reductions in smoking rates and related deaths. Critics argue that Ireland's tax increase may prevent smokers from switching to less harmful options, potentially increasing tobacco-related deaths. Recent public opinion in Ireland shows little support for high vaping taxes. Following Sweden's harm reduction model is suggested as a more effective strategy to decrease smoking rates and save lives in Ireland.

October 04, 2024 by dentistry.co.uk

Fewer than one in 10 (9.8%) young adults in the UK currently smoke cigarettes, the data found. This is a steep decline from records 12 years ago, which found that a quarter of 18 to 24-year-olds were smokers. In addition, only 11.9% of UK adults smoked cigarettes in 2023 – down from 20% in 2011, and the lowest level since the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) records began in 2011. The data also found that vaping continues to rise, with a 9.8% of adults aged 16 and over (5.1 million) vaping in 2023. Hazel Cheeseman chief executive of public health charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). Following the release of this data, she said: ‘Today’s figures are further proof that the country is ready to be smoke-free.

October 04, 2024 by bbc.com

The popularity of vaping is on the rise, especially among young people. While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, it can still have negative effects on health. The UK government is tightening regulations on vapes, aiming to curb underage use and reduce environmental impact. Vaping is recommended as a smoking cessation tool, with face-to-face support doubling success rates. The new rules include a ban on disposable vapes by 2025 and taxing vaping products by 2026. Labour supports these measures to promote a smoke-free generation and protect public health. Efforts are also being made to address the environmental impact of disposable vapes, as recycling rates remain low.

October 03, 2024 by mirror.co.uk

Research shows a significant rise in never-smokers vaping since 2021, with one million individuals who never regularly smoked now using e-cigarettes, mostly young adults. While vaping among young non-smokers is a concern, e-cigarettes can help smokers quit. Stricter regulations on marketing and product appearance are suggested. The study also highlights the need for a balanced approach to prevent youth vaping without discouraging smokers from using e-cigarettes. Banning disposable vapes may not effectively address the issue as some brands offer reusable options. In England, vaping among never-regular-smokers increased from 0.5% to 3.5% by 2024, with potential health impacts depending on individual behaviors.

October 03, 2024 by independent.co.uk

A recent study found a significant increase in non-smokers vaping in England, especially among young adults. Despite a rise in vaping since 2021, the trend has leveled off since early 2023. Experts suggest stricter regulations on product appearance, packaging, and marketing to deter younger individuals. Banning disposable vapes may not solve the issue as reusable products are already available. The study showed a particular increase in vaping among heavy drinkers. The impact of this rise in vaping on public health depends on whether individuals would have smoked otherwise. Regulations to minimize vaping among non-smokers while supporting smokers who use e-cigarettes for cessation are recommended.