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September 24, 2025 by smokefreesweden.org

The passage highlights that, despite decades of work and major financial investment, smoking continues to kill over 7 million people worldwide each year, and progress in reducing it has stalled in many countries. It argues that current methods are clearly insufficient, and a new strategy is urgently needed. The report suggests that embracing safer nicotine alternatives (SNAs) offers a practical and evidence-based solution, leading to sharp declines in smoking, improved public health, and reduced healthcare expenses.

September 24, 2025 by dorsetecho.co.uk

Varenicline and cytisine, free on prescription, aid in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Approved by the MHRA, they enhance the success of quitting and are available in Dorset and Bournemouth, supporting the goal of a smokefree generation by 2030. Personalized consultations with pharmacists and regular check-ins provide valuable support. Councillors highlight the benefits of these medicines, especially for those who struggled to quit before, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step towards a smoke-free life. Local stop smoking services now offer a wider range of tools, increasing the chances of success in quitting smoking.

September 24, 2025 by slguardian.org

Polish President Nawrocki sparked debate after appearing to take an item at the UN ceremony, raising concerns over his nicotine pouch use. MP Giertych questioned Nawrocki's actions, hinting at substance abuse. Despite passing a drug test, doubts persist over Nawrocki's behavior, including an incident during a debate. Critics demand closer oversight, while supporters advise against quick judgments based on limited footage, adding complexity to Nawrocki's presidency.

September 24, 2025 by polskieradio.pl

The incident involving Polish President Nawrocki placing a nicotine pouch in his mouth was captured during a UN ceremony. Critics highlighted the irony of him opposing health education while using tobacco products. The president had previously withdrawn his son from health classes, causing debate. Education Minister Nowacka stressed the importance of teaching addiction prevention and healthy habits in schools. Poland sees around 67,000 smoking-related deaths annually, equivalent to a medium-sized city population, emphasizing the detrimental impact of tobacco use. This incident raises questions about public health, education, and the president's stance on these issues.

September 23, 2025 by spiked-online.com

The UK government plans to ban vaping in public places, claiming health risks without scientific evidence. Public Health England emphasized the negligible harm of secondhand vaping in 2015 and 2018. Recent research also supports this, finding minimal health risks for bystanders. The proposed ban lacks evidence of significant risks, potentially hindering smokers from switching to safer alternatives. Critics argue it's a disproportionate restriction that harms harm-reduction efforts and reinforces negative perceptions of vaping. Public health policies should be evidence-based. Banning vaping without proven risks undermines harm reduction and individual freedoms, contrary to the government's successful smoking cessation programs. This overcautious approach may perpetuate smoking and stigmatize vaping.

September 23, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Ireland is set to introduce a tax on vape liquid, with a levy of 50c per milliliter planned to start by the end of the year. Measures to implement the tax, aimed at curbing youth vaping, are in advanced stages. The government is also increasing restrictions on vaping, including bans on sales to those under 18 and plans to prohibit disposable vapes along with stricter rules on flavors and advertising. Enforcement of regulations is crucial, with concerns raised about retail compliance and the need for effective prosecution of offenders.

September 23, 2025 by gfn.tv

Portugal is celebrated for its progressive drug policy, yet tobacco harm reduction remains sidelined. At GFN 2025 in Warsaw, Adriana Curado of GAT in Lisbon shows how nicotine became “the forgotten substance.” From her own move away from smoking to a pioneering vaping project with people who use drugs and those experiencing homelessness, Curado exposes public health contradictions, the persistence of stigma, and why safer nicotine options matter—especially for marginalized groups.

September 22, 2025 by independent.co.uk

Research suggests selling vapes in plain packaging could deter children while still serving as a tool for adult smokers to quit. A study by UCL and King’s College London showed standardised packs with limited flavor descriptions reduced youth appeal by 15%. Interest among adults remained steady. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to regulate vape marketing to protect children while supporting smokers trying to quit. The study emphasized finding a balance to discourage youth vaping without hindering adult cessation efforts. Standardized packaging could be effective in reducing youth interest without impacting adults' perception of harm. The findings highlight the importance of regulating vape packaging to strike a balance.

September 16, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The UK ban on disposable vapes to reduce environmental impact and waste issues has backfired, with more vapes found in general recycling post-ban. Biffa reports a 3% increase with around a million vapes entering recycling monthly, despite the ban aiming to reduce them. The rise is partly attributed to cheap reusable vapes being treated as disposables. Improper disposal poses risks due to lithium battery fires and remains a challenge for waste management. The ban has failed to meet its goals of safeguarding health and the environment, as the disposal problem persists.

September 15, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed concern over disinformation affecting global health progress. Health Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi faced backlash for misinformation on nicotine products and vaping. Despite evidence proving the safety of alternatives to smoking, the Commission plans to tax them to discourage use. Experts warn against restricting access to safer options, highlighting the importance of harm reduction in public health. Inconsistent statements by authorities erode trust and credibility, impacting public health policies. The need for accountability and transparency in policymaking is emphasized, urging organizations to address misinformation to uphold public health standards.