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April 17, 2024 by bbc.com

MPs have backed a plan to ban anyone born after 2009 from buying cigarettes, effectively ensuring it will become law. The measures, championed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, survived despite opposition from several leading Tory figures - including two ex-PMs. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins told MPs "there is no liberty in addiction" as she defended the plans. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill passed by 383 votes to 67. If they become law, the UK's smoking laws will be among the strictest in the world.

April 16, 2024 by dutchnews.nl

Children have been hospitalized due to severe lung issues from excessive vaping, prompting the Dutch child medicine association NVK to take action for a nicotine-free society and potentially banning e-cigarettes. An alarming 22% of Dutch youth aged 12 to 25 vape, often alongside smoking tobacco. Doctors warn of the tobacco industry's tactics to addict young people. Vaping is cheaper than smoking. The Netherlands banned flavored e-liquids in 2022.

April 15, 2024 by eureporter.co

65% of EU smokers feel policymakers overlook their views on tobacco rules, with many Europeans supporting harm reduction over a tobacco ban. A Povaddo survey for Philip Morris Intl. highlights acceptance of smoke-free alternatives and calls for fair taxation to deter youth. The study reveals public desire for accurate info on less harmful products, endorsing harm reduction policies, and a balanced approach by the EU. Most believe eradicating smoking is impractical, emphasizing harm reduction policies. Illicit trade concerns are high, with majority opposed to bans and recognizing the security risks.

April 11, 2024 by bbc.com

People using cannabis THC vapes risk inhaling a very dangerous substance called xylazine, UK experts warn after discovering some confiscated products contained the "zombie" drug. It is "alarming" to find it in "even a few" illicit e-cigarettes that many think are pretty harmless, experts say. Dr Caroline Copeland and colleagues from King's College London say new types of illicit xylazine products are now entering the UK market. As well as risky vapes, they found tablets being sold as codeine and diazepam, or Valium, that contained xylazine.

April 09, 2024 by brusselstimes.com

Two years ago, Members of the European Parliament (MEP) adopted the Report on the Beating Cancer Plan. They stated that “comprehensive preventive actions against cancer, through measures supporting the elimination or reduction of harm caused by modifiable risk factors should be implemented across all European policies and funding programmes”. In particular, MEPs encouraged the Commission to “promote actions to reduce and prevent alcohol-related harm”. They also called the Commission to enact evidence-based policies, backed by the scientific community.

April 09, 2024 by theolivepress.es

Spain has initiated a new anti-smoking plan via public consultation for plain cigarette packets and banning vape flavors in the 2024-2027 policy. The Health Ministry collaborated with 17 regions on this plan. The proposal aims to prevent youth tobacco initiation, involves neutral tobacco packets, and flavored vape prohibition. Health Minister Monica Garcia plans to discuss tobacco tax levels with the Finance Ministry. The plan also includes smoke-free outdoor spaces, pending specific terms. Despite overall regional support, some regions may have differing opinions, particularly concerning hospitality terrace smoking.

April 04, 2024 by medscape.com

French lawmakers have agreed on a bill to ban disposable e-cigarettes like Puff and Vaze by 2024 due to their popularity among young people and concerns about nicotine content and environmental impact. Despite restrictions on sales to minors, a survey shows easy access to these devices. The ban aims to prevent teen smoking initiation and address environmental pollution caused by e-cigarette components. The bill, supported by various political parties, awaits European Commission approval. Health Minister Vautrin hopes for a ban by the end of 2024, following similar actions in Belgium.

April 04, 2024 by dutchnews.nl

In the Netherlands, smokers may need a face scan to prove they are over 18 to purchase cigarettes, with fines up to €9,000 for non-compliance. Using AI, a camera estimates age based on facial features. 100 outlets, including 5 gas stations in The Hague, have adopted the technology. Data is not stored, and scanning is not obligatory. Some find the process helpful, while others have concerns about data privacy. Starting in July, tobacco sales will be limited to specialized stores and gas stations.

April 04, 2024 by euobserver.com

European ombudsman Emily O'Reilly warns about tobacco lobbying's influence on the European Commission, citing unrecorded meetings and lack of transparency in dealings with the industry. She criticizes the Commission for not requiring key staff to document interactions with tobacco lobbyists, emphasizing the importance of transparency. O'Reilly previously investigated undue influence by the tobacco industry on commission officials and found discrepancies in record-keeping across different departments. Only senior officials' meetings were documented, with inadequate or nonexistent minutes.

April 04, 2024 by socialeurope.eu

The European Commission should limit interactions with the tobacco industry, publicize and fully document meetings. Lobbying influences EU legislation, especially in industries like tobacco that prioritize profit over public health. Stricter regulations are needed to prevent industry lobbying from endangering lives and healthcare systems. Transparent and limited engagements with the tobacco industry are crucial to uphold public-health policies. The commission’s inconsistent transparency practices reveal the necessity for more stringent regulations.