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June 26, 2025 by gfn.tv

GFN 2025 Keynote #1 - delivered by Mark Tyndall, hosted by Paddy Costall, response from Carolyn Beaumont - titled "What's so scary about tobacco harm reduction?". Mark will explore the lessons he has learned from the harm reduction movement, not least the way stigma experienced by people who use drugs, and moral judgements about drug-taking affect policy and political decision making. Consumer advocates and tobacco harm reduction campaigners face significant challenges engaging lawmakers and public health organisations, including structural opposition to safer nicotine products. How can we convince those in power that this consumer-led public health revolution can lead to real-world change?

June 26, 2025 by news-medical.net

A study from UC Davis found that some disposable e-cigarettes emit toxic metals like lead, nickel, and antimony at dangerous levels, surpassing traditional cigarettes. Most disposable e-cigarettes are illegal in the US and popular among teens, risking lead exposure and health issues like cancer. Researchers analyzed seven devices, discovering high metal concentrations in the vapor, with toxins leaching from components. Health risks include cancer and respiratory diseases. This highlights the need for urgent enforcement and more research on these harmful disposable e-cigarettes, calling for stricter regulations and increased awareness among consumers and regulators.

June 26, 2025 by nypost.com

E-cigarettes were initially marketed for smoking cessation but are now widely used by both smokers and non-smokers, with over 11 million Americans vaping regularly. Recent research in the journal ACS Central Science revealed high levels of toxic metals in some e-cigarettes, raising health concerns. The study found that disposable vapes may emit more toxins than refillable ones. Manufacturers dispute the findings, citing inaccurate testing. Researchers are calling for more studies and regulations due to the growing e-cigarette market surpassing scientific knowledge. Despite restrictions on flavored e-cigarettes, enforcement remains lax, allowing new products to flood the market.

June 26, 2025 by euractiv.com

Speaking at the World Conference on Tobacco Control, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called for stronger measures against vaping, warning that the industry is using tactics similar to those once employed by the tobacco industry to target youth. He acknowledged that Ireland had been slow to act but said new restrictions—including limits on product placement, flavours, and packaging—will take effect in February 2026. Martin emphasized growing international and national evidence on the health harms of vaping, calling it a threat to both young people and adults.

June 26, 2025 by filtermag.org

Consumer advocate Maria Papaionnoy-Duic emphasized the importance of collaboration between advocates and activists when promoting safer nicotine products at the Global Forum on Nicotine in Warsaw. She highlighted the need for effective communication and personal storytelling to counter misinformation and garner support. Papaionnoy-Duic and Ignacio Leiva hosted a workshop on mobilizing consumer voices and shared successful advocacy strategies, such as leveraging personal stories and engaging with lawmakers. The event also showcased THR scientists and advocates from around the world, encouraging consumers to collaborate with researchers for impactful advocacy. The key message: empower individuals, share stories, and engage with policymakers to advance tobacco harm reduction globally.

June 25, 2025 by news-medical.net

Exposure to cannabis and e-cigarette posts on social media influences teen substance use, with dual use being common. Although youth e-cigarette use is decreasing, adolescents are still vaping, using cannabis, and combining both. Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine found that TikTok poses the highest risk for substance use exposure. Influencers play a significant role, as their posts without disclosed brand partnerships can affect teen behavior. Social media guidelines need improvement to prevent youth substance use. Future studies will delve into cannabis influencer marketing effects.

June 25, 2025 by thefirebreak.org

Harm reduction is a pragmatic health approach aiming to minimize harm from risky behaviors. Challenges arise due to opposition from health campaigners, criticizing harm reduction for potentially promoting risky behavior. Examples include distributing free needles for drug users. Misinformation campaigns against vaping and reduced harm alternatives to smoking are a concern, hindering public health progress. Concerns about harm reduction strategies influencing youth behavior exist but may be overstated. The WHO spreads misinformation on nicotine products, while activist NGOs align with anti-vaping rhetoric. Genuine public health leaders include passionate vaping advocates advocating for reduced harm alternatives. Issues arise from misinformation, corporate interests, and lack of support for harm reduction efforts.

June 25, 2025 by theblaze.com

Global public health elites propose a 50% tax increase on tobacco, alcohol, sugary drinks, and processed foods to raise $3.7 trillion, seen as governmental theft. These "health taxes" aim to expand state control rather than combat illness. The burden falls heavily on working-class individuals. The strategy is viewed as economic punishment, not health promotion. Taxing small pleasures disproportionately affects the most vulnerable. Prohibitive pricing can lead to black markets and overlooks personal freedoms and informed choices. Public health should focus on harm reduction and education, not coercive taxation. Respecting individual autonomy and promoting innovation yields better outcomes than punitive measures.

June 25, 2025 by consideratepouchers.org

Spain's Ministry of Health's proposed regulation to ban flavored nicotine pouches and cap nicotine levels may unintentionally drive former smokers back to cigarettes. A survey shows most users switched to pouches to quit smoking and strongly oppose the ban. Many fear a return to cigarettes if the regulation is enforced. Instead of blanket bans, age verification and vendor penalties could better prevent youth access. The current approach risks fueling a black market and increasing smoking rates. Effective public health policies should focus on education and responsible sales rather than punishing consumers. Protecting the vulnerable means regulating with evidence, not fear.

June 23, 2025 by spokesman.com

During the academic year, ZYN nicotine pouches are among the top-selling items at the Mobil gas station on Hamilton Street near Gonzaga University. Students prefer them for their discreet use and variety of flavors, with the store selling 14–16 five-can rolls weekly. Most students don’t buy other nicotine products. Due to the rising popularity of nicotine pouches, lawmakers across the U.S. are considering adjusting tobacco taxes to include these products.