Read articles from Europe

October 01, 2024 by irishnews.com

The Office for National Statistics reports an increase in daily e-cigarette use among young adults in Great Britain. In 2023, 9.8% of adults vaped, with significant increases among women aged 16-24. While vaping aids smoking cessation, experts are concerned about its popularity among youth. Smoking rates have decreased, with 11.9% of UK adults smoking in 2023, lower among the younger population. The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to regulate e-cigarette marketing and sales. The government emphasizes the harm reduction potential of vaping while addressing smoking-related health and economic burdens. Ash advocates for smoke-free measures and smoking cessation support for the six million smokers in the UK.

October 01, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

A UK survey of vapers revealed over half are likely to return to smoking if a vaping ban is imposed, with 52% fearing they will revert to cigarettes. Twenty-six percent have tried to quit vaping, some switching to cigarettes, nicotine pouches, or gum. Concerningly, a third might turn to unregulated vaping post-ban, despite being aware of the associated risks. Many prioritize product smell and flavor over safety assurance. The study suggests exploring safe, regulated alternatives and highlights the potential of nicotine pouches in reducing smoking rates. Accessibility and simplicity are key preferences among vapers.

October 01, 2024 by nih.gov

In Sweden, there has been a massive transition from cigarette smoking to snus, the Swedish kind of low-toxicity oral tobacco. This product poses very little health risk compared to cigarettes, as illustrated by the fact that males in Sweden have Europe's lowest level of mortality attributable to smoking. The current investigation estimates how high the smoking-attributable mortality in Sweden would have been if there had been no snus in Sweden. It is made up by comparisons between observed Swedish data and two scenarios without snus: a group of comparable countries, and, a hypothetical Sweden with no snus use. Both comparisons suggest that around 3000 lives per year have been saved by the use of snus in Sweden.

September 30, 2024 by dailystar.co.uk

The UK plans to ban single-use vapes in 2025, causing concerns among vapers about returning to smoking. Research by Ubbs and Haypp shows vapers are exploring alternatives like pouches, gum, and cigarettes. Despite worries, 22% see the ban as a chance to quit vaping for good. Safety concerns persist, with some considering unregulated sources. Nicotine pouches are seen as a supportive tool for the UK's smoke-free goal. Participants prioritize taste over safety in vape alternatives. The study highlights efforts to quit vaping before the ban or switch to safer options like nicotine pouches, aiming to reduce smoking rates and improve public health.

September 27, 2024 by euractiv.com

The European Commission approved France's decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes to reduce waste and youth vaping risks, in compliance with the Tobacco Products Directive. The ban aims to address health risks and environmental concerns of nicotine in non-recyclable e-cigarettes. France's move follows similar actions by Belgium, Germany, and Ireland. The colorful and flavored disposable e-cigarettes are popular among youth, with concerns that they lead to cigarette smoking. The ban, supported by former Health Minister Vautrin, aims to reduce nicotine addiction among young users. Refillable e-cigarettes were not included in the ban. French President Macron is now required to enforce the law.

September 26, 2024 by connexionfrance.com

The European Commission approved France's ban on disposable vapes to protect children and the environment. France aims to ban single-use e-cigarettes by 2025 due to health risks and appeal to young people. Refillable e-cigarettes with nicotine and rechargeable batteries are not included in the ban. The move is supported by health officials to combat smoking. Belgium is also prohibiting disposable vapes. Concerns include microplastics, chemicals, and addiction risks. The availability of fruity flavors in cheap, disposable vapes attracts teenagers, contributing to nicotine exposure. Public health efforts and environmental concerns prompt the ban and opposition to the sale of these products, emphasizing the health risks posed by puffs.

September 26, 2024 by filtermag.org

The European Commission is proposing a ban on vaping and heated tobacco products in various outdoor spaces across EU member states to protect public health. This recommendation aims to align regulations with smoking bans, despite differing risks. Critics argue that the proposed ban may stigmatize safer nicotine alternatives and hinder smoking cessation efforts. The initiative forms part of the EU's Beating Cancer Plan, striving for a tobacco-free generation by 2040. Concerns have been raised about conflating risks of vaping with smoking and the need for evidence-based policies. Overall, the proposal faces scrutiny for potentially impeding harm reduction and public health goals.

September 24, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

New legislation in Ireland imposes a €2,000 fine for selling vapes at events targeting children to reduce youth vaping. Minister Donnelly aims to combat vaping among youth while keeping vapes accessible for adult smokers to quit. Proposed laws regulate vaping products, but critics fear they could boost smoking rates. Donnelly plans to introduce further tobacco control laws, including setting 21 as the minimum age for purchasing tobacco. However, concerns exist over potential black market growth due to stringent vape restrictions, akin to what happened in Australia post-ban.

September 23, 2024 by hungarytoday.hu

In Hungary, heated tobacco products are increasingly popular, while traditional cigarettes decline. Sales of heated tobacco units have surged since 2020, reaching 300 million units monthly by 2024. This growth is outpacing traditional cigarette sales, which have dropped significantly. The black market for tobacco is also expanding. Stricter regulations may affect future trends, but consumers are likely to shift to alternative products. The future of tobacco consumption in Hungary points towards continued change, with heated products set to surpass traditional tobacco in popularity.

September 20, 2024 by theguardian.com

The UK aims for a smoke-free society, considering a ban on tobacco sales to those born after 2009 and tighter vape regulations. However, efforts to discourage vaping among youth via social media face challenges. Ovarian cancer costs the UK over £5bn annually and has a significant socioeconomic impact globally. Patients with mental illness may receive unequal treatment for breast cancer, affecting their surgical options and possibly contributing to lower survival rates. Healthcare disparities highlight the need for improved support for vulnerable populations.