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September 10, 2025 by gfn.tv

Across Europe, health experts are raising alarm over the European Commission’s plan to impose new taxes on reduced-risk nicotine products such as e‑cigarettes, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches. In this episode of GFN News on GFN.TV, Joanna Junak speaks with leading international specialists — including Fernando Bueno, Bernd Mayer, Garrett McGovern and Konstantinos Farsalinos — who explain why such taxation could have serious unintended consequences.

September 10, 2025 by cnn.com

New research suggests that higher levels of THC in marijuana may harm unfertilized eggs, potentially leading to infertility, miscarriage, and genetic defects in babies. A cautious approach to cannabis use when planning to conceive is advised. Studies show a rise in marijuana use during pregnancy, linked to negative outcomes like poor fetal development. The study highlights the impact of THC on egg maturation and chromosome formation but further research is needed. The increasing potency of THC poses risks, as consumers may not be aware of the levels in products. Experts recommend considering safer alternatives to manage symptoms.

September 10, 2025 by nature.com

Understanding the impact of cannabis on female fertility is vital for patient counseling. Research shows THC exposure affects oocyte maturation and chromosomal balance, potentially leading to lower embryo euploidy. In a study at CReATe Fertility Centre, THC was found in 6% of follicular fluid samples, affecting IVF outcomes. THC exposure accelerated oocyte maturation but increased aneuploidy rates and altered gene expression related to oocyte functions, affecting fertilization and implantation. These findings suggest cannabis may negatively impact fertility. Further studies are needed to explore THC's mechanisms in human oocytes fully. The study emphasizes the importance of caution and awareness regarding cannabis use during fertility treatments.

September 10, 2025 by vapingpost.com

Smoking remains a global public health crisis, leading to millions of preventable deaths annually. Despite the clear risks, countries often resist harm reduction strategies, but some doctors advocate for evidence-based approaches. In India, vaping products are banned, yet high smoking rates persist. In the U.S., many clinicians lack information on harm reduction, hindering progress. Europe also faces challenges with illegal vape sales to youth. Prohibition fuels black markets and misinformation, impacting public health. Doctors worldwide call for education, regulation, and safer alternatives to combat smoking effectively and shift from managing to preventing the tragic consequences of smoking.

September 10, 2025 by blogspot.com

According to Reuters, the FDA is preparing to accelerate the review of applications for the sale of nicotine pouches. These products are considered far less harmful than traditional cigarettes, as they contain no tobacco, require no combustion, and do not involve inhalation. [...] The FDA is being criticized for taking “shortcuts” in reviewing nicotine pouch applications, but the reality is that reviews often take years instead of the 180 days required by law — Zyn, for example, took five years. Speeding up this process is not a threat to kids’ health but a necessary step to bring safer alternatives to smokers more quickly. Meanwhile, groups like the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids remain silent on the FDA’s continued approval of deadly cigarettes, never calling for their removal or even stricter safety standards.

September 10, 2025 by filtermag.org

New York City faces a high rate of cigarette tax evasion due to exorbitant prices, leading to a thriving illicit market. The study found a decline in packs with official tax stamps, leading to concerns about the impact of high tobacco taxes on smokers. While smoking rates have decreased, experts debate whether it's due to taxes or the rise of safer nicotine products like vapes. Strategies to combat the illegal cigarette trade, including a track-and-trace system, are discussed. However, punitive measures like those on flavored vapes might drive consumers back to more harmful options, highlighting the need for harm reduction approaches.

September 09, 2025 by bioengineer.org

Nicotine pouches offer a novel, potentially lower-risk approach to nicotine ingestion, attracting former tobacco users. Despite limited use among the general population, concerns arise over their appeal to youth. Studies suggest a harm reduction potential for adult smokers, though regulatory caution is advised. The FDA's recent approval of ZYN sets a precedent, yet efficacy and safety data are lacking. Rutgers' comprehensive research identifies user demographics and behaviors, informing future policy decisions. Current data demonstrate a low uptake among non-tobacco users, raising questions about long-term health effects. Vigilance is crucial to prevent youth initiation while maximizing harm reduction benefits for adult users in the evolving nicotine landscape.

September 09, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

Adults in the U.S. are turning to nicotine pouches as a potential step down from more harmful nicotine products. A study by Rutgers Health found that most users have a history of tobacco use, with some using pouches to quit. Despite low overall usage rates, concerns about the long-term health effects, addiction, and youth uptake persist. Researchers emphasize the need for monitoring and regulation to prevent uncontrolled proliferation. While potentially beneficial for established tobacco users seeking harm reduction, caution is advised for non-users. Understanding usage patterns is crucial as these products gain popularity. The study provides valuable insights into current trends around nicotine pouch use.

September 09, 2025 by republicworld.com

Policymakers and health officials convening in Dublin overlook consumer perspectives on tobacco regulation, focusing on prohibitive measures influenced by powerful stakeholders. This ignores evidence supporting harm reduction strategies and excludes those benefiting from safer alternatives in countries like Sweden and the UK. Proposed EU regulations, aligning with the WHO's strict abstinence model, risk hindering public health by restricting access to less harmful nicotine products. Amidst global policy debates, it is crucial for decision-makers to prioritize evidence-based approaches and engage with consumer voices to ensure effective and inclusive tobacco control strategies at COP11 and beyond.

September 09, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Last week marked the launch of Prohibition Does Not Work, an international coalition backed by think tanks and aimed at promoting evidence-based harm reduction policies over prohibitionist approaches. The group argues that prohibition has failed, fueling crime, black markets, and public health risks, while blocking access to safer alternatives. Partners such as the Tholos Foundation and the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance stress that governments should follow the science, adopt harm reduction strategies, and curb the unintended consequences of restrictive tobacco and nicotine laws.