Read articles from Global

August 20, 2025 by theguardian.com

Vaping among young people significantly increases the likelihood of future smoking, asthma, cough, injuries, and mental health issues. Research shows a concerning link between vaping and harmful behaviors, prompting calls for stricter regulations. While evidence is largely observational, studies indicate a threefold increase in smoking initiation among young vapers. Asthma risk rises by 20-36%. The relationship between vaping and smoking urges governments to act swiftly. Despite vaping being a less harmful alternative for adults, it poses serious risks for youth. Controversy exists on the causality of vaping leading to smoking. Urgent actions are needed to protect children from the dangers associated with vaping.

August 19, 2025 by chronicle.gi

The Gibraltar Government is considering legislation to ban tobacco sales to residents born after January 1, 2009. Feedback from industry and retailers highlighted economic concerns. The Minister acknowledges the addictive nature of nicotine but clarifies smoking remains legal. The goal is to prevent youth smoking and create a smoke-free environment. If approved, the law would take effect in 2027. Penalties for violating the law could be up to £10,000 for individuals and up to £20,000 for businesses. The legislation also targets single-use vapes, tobacco product imitations, and vending machine sales.

August 19, 2025 by cureus.com

Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of death and disease, linked to cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and cancer. Novel nicotine products such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches can lower exposure to harmful chemicals and reduce smoking-related risks, supporting national “SmokeFree” strategies. However, their effectiveness depends on accessibility. While some advocate for prescription-only models, such restrictions may limit access for smokers and lead to unintended consequences, including black markets, crime, and health risks from unregulated products.

August 18, 2025 by substack.com

This text, based on a presentation at a conference, highlights flaws in nicotine/tobacco research, discusses harm reduction, and critiques common research flaws. It emphasizes the divisive nature of tobacco harm reduction (THR) research, industry involvement, and bias in interpreting data. Common flaws include disregarding harm continuum, misinterpreting causation, and making inappropriate policy recommendations. The author proposes that confirmation bias and peer reviewer alignment contribute to the field's polarization and declining research integrity. The complexity of nicotine/tobacco research, industry influence, and the need for critical evaluation of scientific studies are discussed.

August 18, 2025 by news-medical.net

Researchers tested the iSENZIA™ heated herbal system as a potential safer alternative for smokers, delivering nicotine with fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes. The study found that the system produced aerosols with significantly lower levels of harmful compounds compared to cigarette smoke, supporting reduced exposure and potential harm reduction. Clinical findings showed lower nicotine delivery and satisfaction compared to cigarettes, suggesting lower abuse liability. However, long-term health impact and switching effectiveness require further study. Study limitations include a small sample size and lack of long-term outcomes.

August 18, 2025 by reason.org

FDA Commissioner Makary emphasized stakeholder consensus and evidence-based decisions on policy issues in a podcast, raising concerns about a "child vaping epidemic" but overlooking adult smokers' needs. Makary should prioritize alternatives for adult smokers, as evidence supports e-cigarettes as a less harmful option than combustible cigarettes. Emphasizing public education to correct misconceptions and authorizing a broader range of appealing alternatives could lead to better health outcomes. Restrictive measures, such as flavor bans, risk driving consumers to the unregulated market and increasing tobacco sales. To improve public health, FDA policies should align with evidence-based approaches and address adult smokers' needs to reduce illicit products and promote safer choices.

August 18, 2025 by dailymail.co.uk

The ban on disposable vapes failed as manufacturers replaced them with reusable replicas, still leading to disposal. Despite the ban due to underage vaping, 5.3 million copycat vapes were sold in the first month, but only 1.4 million refills. A survey revealed users buy new devices every 16 days. Environmental concerns were raised, with many discarding vapes instead of refilling. Scott Butler warned of a potential environmental crisis. Tory MP Jack Rankin criticized the ban, suggesting it hindered adult smoking cessation efforts.

August 14, 2025 by nih.gov

Adults who smoke cigarettes and are addicted to alcohol or other drugs were more likely to achieve sustained remission of their substance use disorder symptoms if they also quit smoking, according to scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Based on their analysis of data from a large U.S. study of smoking and health, researchers believe the results clearly show the benefit of pairing smoking cessation with addiction recovery efforts.

August 14, 2025 by southfloridahospitalnews.com

Adults who smoke cigarettes and are addicted to alcohol or other drugs were more likely to achieve sustained remission of their substance use disorder symptoms if they also quit smoking, according to scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Based on their analysis of data from a large U.S. study of smoking and health, researchers believe the results clearly show the benefit of pairing smoking cessation with addiction recovery efforts.

August 14, 2025 by news-medical.net

Comprehensive guide explains that quitting smoking is difficult because nicotine relieves stress, but success is possible with personalised plans, trigger identification and coping strategies. It advises setting a quit date, using nicotine‑replacement products, managing withdrawal and seeking support.