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July 23, 2025 by gfn.tv

Despite its aim to reduce global consumption of cigarettes, the impact of the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) on tobacco use has been heavily contested, particularly in relation to low-income countries. The panel will assess the effectiveness of the convention as it reaches its 20th anniversary, and highlight areas that need drastic change, if it is to have any future relevance in reducing smoking.

July 22, 2025 by cspdailynews.com

The FDA authorized Juul e-cigarette device along with menthol and tobacco pods, the first ENDS approvals this year. Juul aims to replace combustible tobacco and received praise from the Vapor Technology Association. However, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids criticized the decision, linking Juul to youth e-cigarette use. The National Association of Convenience Stores urged action against illicit vape products from China. Currently, the FDA has approved 39 e-cigarette products for sale in the US, emphasizing the restricted market.

July 22, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

A recent study led by Georgia State University found that over 84% of youth and young adults who use e-cigarettes modify them in potentially dangerous ways. Researchers noted various modifications made by users, such as adjusting voltage or adding substances to the liquid, increasing exposure to harmful chemicals. Unauthorized battery modifications could lead to overheating or explosions, as reported by 40% of youth users. The researchers emphasize the need for public health campaigns to educate users about the risks associated with modifying e-cigarettes, in addition to the health risks of vaping. The study was published in Scientific Reports, highlighting the importance of warning users and enhancing product safety measures.

July 21, 2025 by dailyexpress.com.my

Electronic cigarettes owe their existence to Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik, who sought to quit smoking in 2001. Using nicotine patches at the time, he began experimenting with vaporizing nicotine using food additives as solvents. In 2000, he developed the concept of using a piezoelectric ultrasound element to vaporize a nicotine-propylene glycol solution, stored in a disposable plastic cartridge. After refining the device into a handheld size, he patented it in China, and the first e-cigarette was manufactured in Beijing. His innovations laid the foundation for modern e-cigarettes. Hon’s story was presented at the 12th Global Forum on Nicotine (GFN 2025) in Warsaw, where he has supported the forum since 2015, promoting tobacco harm reduction.

July 21, 2025 by aol.com

The FDA allowed Juul to keep selling e-cigarettes and refill cartridges. Despite facing legal challenges, Juul convinced the FDA of the benefits for adult smokers switching from cigarettes. Although Juul discontinued some flavors to deter teenage users, the FDA's decision sparked controversy due to concerns about youth vaping. The FDA emphasized that non-smokers should avoid e-cigarettes. Juul faced lawsuits over teen vaping but argued for their product's safety. The FDA recognized Juul's potential harm reduction for smokers. Juul CEO Crosthwaite welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the importance for adult smokers to have regulated alternatives.

July 21, 2025 by neurosciencenews.com

A study by Marshall University reveals that e-cigarette flavors like vanilla and cherry can trigger addictive behaviors in adolescent mice independently of nicotine, affecting the brain's dopamine system. Particularly, vanilla flavor alone reinforced these behaviors. Flavored vaping products, including nicotine-free ones, may encourage addiction-like patterns in teens. The research demonstrates how certain flavor additives influence the brain similarly to nicotine, potentially increasing dependence, especially in youth. The study, funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, highlights the impact of flavor chemicals on the brain and suggests concerns about flavored e-cigarettes marketed as nicotine-free.

July 21, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

A study by Marshall University shows that e-cigarette flavors like vanilla and cherry can drive vaping behavior in adolescents, similar to nicotine. The research, using an EVSA assay on mice, found vanilla and benzaldehyde triggered reward-seeking responses. Even without nicotine, vanilla flavor alone led to addictive behavior. These flavored additives may affect the brain's dopamine system, potentially causing addiction-like behaviors in teens. The study highlights the impact of flavorings on nicotinic receptors, key in nicotine addiction. Lead investigator Henderson warns of the risks of flavored vapes marketed as nicotine-free.

July 21, 2025 by blogspot.com

Last week, I explained that a recent clinical trial of very low nicotine cigarettes for pregnant smokers was unethical because neither the intervention nor control groups were offered usual care: being instructed by a physician to quit smoking and being offered behavioral interventions, as specified by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. However, in addition to this ethical breach, there are several other aspects of the research which contribute to its impropriety.

July 21, 2025 by ktvu.com

The FDA authorized Juul to sell tobacco and menthol e-cigarettes, stating they are less harmful for adult smokers. Critics fear a reversal in reducing underage vaping. The agency emphasized the products are not safe or FDA-approved and warned against their use by non-smokers and youth. Juul CEO supports the decision, citing regulation for adult tobacco users. Opponents argue Juul should be banned due to its impact on youth vaping. The company's fruit flavors remain banned. E-cigarettes were once seen as a safer alternative to smoking, but studies suggest vaping may cause more lung inflammation than cigarettes.

July 21, 2025 by filtermag.org

Switching from smoking to vapes or heated tobacco products can lead to improved fitness levels in just four weeks, according to a study published in Scientific Reports. Researchers at the University of Catania found significant increases in aerobic capacity among participants who made the switch, regardless of using e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products. These gains in fitness can motivate younger individuals to opt for safer nicotine alternatives. The study highlights the potential of smoke-free products as effective harm reduction tools, with improvements in cardiovascular efficiency seen as early as four weeks after quitting smoking. The findings suggest that both e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products can enhance cardiovascular fitness post-smoking cessation.