Read articles from Europe

July 11, 2024 by theparliamentmagazine.eu

The newly elected European Parliament has a chance to advance the goal of a smoke-free Europe by 2040. Embracing science and learning from successful examples like Sweden can help achieve a smoking rate of under 5%. Addressing misconceptions around alternative nicotine products, such as vaping, is crucial for public health. Recognizing the harm reduction potential and regulating based on evidence can lead to significant health improvements. Following Sweden's harm reduction strategy and revising directives to support less harmful products will play a crucial role. By encouraging smokers to switch to safer options, the Parliament can make a historic impact on public health and work towards a smoke-free future in Europe.

July 10, 2024 by mirror.co.uk

Vaping among children is on the rise despite being illegal, with kids using TikTok tactics to conceal e-cigarettes. Hospital admissions related to vaping in children are increasing, with concerns over online hacks aiding vape hiding. A recent report showed a three-fold increase in children vaping in the UK over three years. Prof. Grigg warns that vaping can lead to tobacco smoking and criticizes the government's lax regulations. Online vape sellers reveal popular hiding spots, including clothing, canvases, pillows, and stuffed toys. Parents are advised to discuss vaping cautiously with their kids to foster communication and awareness, supporting good decision-making instead of resorting to confrontational tactics.

July 10, 2024 by talkingretail.com

The tobacco sector, valued at £14bn annually, is dominated by ready-made cigarettes (70% market share), while roll-your-own tobacco holds 30%. The vaping industry is projected to triple in worth by 2025. UK's Tobacco & Vapes bill aims to make the country smoke-free by 2030, impacting convenience stores heavily reliant on tobacco sales. Manufacturers are adapting, with Philip Morris promoting smoke-free alternatives like IQOS Iluma. Cigar sales are growing, and the illicit trade poses challenges. Retailers are advised to diversify offerings, understand value trends, and stock a variety of products, including eco-friendly options.

July 10, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The Labour Party formed a new government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, appointing key officials, like Professor Dame Angela McLean and Patrick Vallance, who will influence vape policies. Wes Streeting is the new Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. Labour supports measures to prevent youth smoking, such as restricting vape flavors. The government plans to ban disposable vapes, but some actions, like restricting adult vape flavors, may be counterproductive according to the New Nicotine Alliance. Vape consumers are encouraged to educate newly elected MPs on the benefits of vaping. Contact details for MPs are available online for direct communication.

July 08, 2024 by filtermag.org

A study by University College London found a significant increase in higher-nicotine vaping in the UK, particularly at the legal limit of 20 mg/ml. This shift is attributed to the introduction of disposable vapes with stronger nicotine strengths. Research indicates that higher nicotine levels may aid smoking cessation. Users like "David" and Janine highlight the role of high-nicotine vapes in quitting smoking. Taxing based on nicotine strength, as proposed in the UK, may hinder vaping's harm reduction potential and encourage the use of lower-strength liquids. Individuals have varying nicotine needs, with higher levels often beneficial for quitting.

July 08, 2024 by ireland-live.ie

Over 1,000 health experts urge the government to prioritize phasing out smoking by reintroducing legislation banning young individuals from smoking. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, seen as crucial for public health, had broad support but was shelved due to a General Election. Advocates stress the importance of prioritizing this bill to save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and combat youth vaping. Experts emphasize the urgent need to prevent marketing vapes to children while making them available for adult smokers. The UK has an opportunity to lead globally in eradicating smoking, and experts call on the government to seize this chance.

July 08, 2024 by lenews.ch

In 2022, Switzerland's smoking rate was 24%, dropping by 3% from 2017, with a significant decrease among highly educated individuals. Heavy smoking has decreased by over half in 30 years. New tobacco/e-cigarette consumption is popular among youth. Smoking rates varied based on education level. Men’s smoking rate (27%) is decreasing, catching up with women (21%). Switzerland’s smoking rates remain high compared to other countries. Passive smoking is widely tolerated in public spaces. Lack of awareness about passive smoking's harmful effects persists among Swiss smokers. US CDC reports 2,500,000 deaths in the US since 1964 due to secondhand smoke exposure.

July 03, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

The European Commission released a new EU survey on tobacco and nicotine after a debate on tobacco policy. The report showed minimal decrease in smoking rates, with notable successes in some countries like Czechia. The Commission's bias against safer nicotine products, apparent from past reports, is evident. Conflicts between findings and policy preferences were covered up by manipulating data and lack of media coverage. The fight for safer nicotine products is more about politics than data, influencing upcoming tobacco rulebook reviews. The Commission's stance isn't swayed by science but public opinion, highlighting a disconnect between policy-making and factual evidence.

July 01, 2024 by thefirebreak.org

The WHO's report on commercial determinants of noncommunicable diseases in Europe proposes excluding "health-harming industries" from public dialogue akin to the approach taken with the tobacco industry. Critics argue this approach could hinder public health advancements and partnerships seen in the recent pandemic response. The report dismisses industry efforts, promotes engaging with civil society organizations over industry, and questions the motives behind industry actions. The WHO's push to isolate industry faces internal dissent and scrutiny.

June 27, 2024 by filtermag.org

EU health ministers met to discuss a potential ban on flavored vapes and nicotine products, facing concerns from advocates of tobacco harm reduction. Denmark and Latvia proposed crackdowns on sales, aiming to protect children but also acknowledging risks like black markets. Criticisms include potential harm and the EU missing smoking-cessation goals. Eurobarometer data shows slow progress towards a smoke-free EU by 2040. A ban could lead to increased smoking rates, black markets, and safety risks. Political support for tobacco harm reduction varies, with the potential for the European Parliament to vote on any new legislation. The debate emphasizes the need for a balanced approach considering public health and individual choices.