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May 08, 2025 by thecritic.co.uk

Against zombie prohibitionism

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), established by the WHO in 1965 to investigate cancer causes, has reportedly shifted toward activism over the decades. A recent article in the New England Journal of Medicine, titled "The IARC Perspective on the Effects of Policies on Reducing Alcohol Consumption", advocates for prohibition as an evidence-based measure. However, a disclaimer at the end of the article states that the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of IARC or the WHO, raising questions about how it can be called an "IARC perspective" at all.

May 06, 2025 by filtermag.org

Ex-FDA Tobacco Head Brian King Joins Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

Dr. Brian King, ousted from the FDA's tobacco center, now joins Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, sparking debate about his stance on harm reduction. Former FDA officials' diverse career paths raise questions about their prior views on nicotine products and any potential conflicts of interest. King, known for authorizing vaping products, faces scrutiny for prioritizing youth prevention over harm reduction. Tobacco harm reduction advocates express frustration with the slow progress in regulating reduced-risk products. While King's move to CTFK is seen as controversial, some hope for a shift towards balanced regulation. The industry's ties to public health groups and conflicting viewpoints on harm reduction remain points of interest.

May 06, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

Shifting nicotine product preferences observed in US high school students

A study reveals the increased use of non-tobacco nicotine products among U.S. adolescents, with a rise in dual use of nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes while exclusive e-cigarette use declines. Nicotine pouches, introduced as socially acceptable and less harmful, have gained popularity, particularly among male students and rural youth. The study calls for increased surveillance and regulation to address the growing trend. Overall, there was a shift in nicotine delivery products, emphasizing the need for comprehensive monitoring and prevention strategies to tackle adolescent nicotine use. The research underscores the importance of understanding and addressing changing patterns in youth nicotine consumption.

May 06, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

CAPHRA Calls for Risk-Proportionate Taxation on Nicotine Products

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates urges regional governments to adopt risk-proportionate taxation for safer nicotine products, warning that current regulations are inadequate. High taxes on these products protect cigarettes and hinder healthier choices. Countries like Japan, the Philippines, and New Zealand with tailored regulation see reduced smoking rates. CAPHRA stresses the need for evidence-based policies that empower informed decisions and improve public health, urging governments to prioritize well-being over revenue in tax policies.

May 06, 2025 by aliveadvocacymovement.com

CAPHRA calls for risk-proportionate taxation on Safer Nicotine Products across Asia Pacific

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) emphasizes the need for risk-proportionate taxation on safer nicotine products in the Asia Pacific region. Existing tax systems, borrowed from Western models, are hindering tobacco harm reduction efforts. CAPHRA warns that high taxes on these products hinder adult smokers from choosing healthier alternatives and protect the cigarette trade. The organization urges governments to tailor taxation to reflect risks accurately, citing successful examples in Japan, the Philippines, and New Zealand. CAPHRA stresses the importance of aligning tax policies with scientific evidence to empower individuals to make informed health choices and avoid creating black markets.

May 05, 2025 by gfn.tv

GFN.TV Interviews #63 | TAX TRAP | How Safer Nicotine Products Get Treated Like Tobacco

New research reveals governments are taxing safer nicotine products like cigarettes, sabotaging tobacco harm reduction and blocking smokers from switching. Correcting these policies could accelerate global declines in smoking.

May 05, 2025 by vaping360.com

Federal Judge Grants Injunction, Blocks Iowa PMTA Registry For Now

A federal judge in Iowa blocked the enforcement of the state's PMTA registry law due to a lawsuit by the vaping industry. Judge Rose cited the Supremacy Clause, stating it violates federal authority. The law was halted until the court resolves the case. The Vapor Technology Association is challenging a similar law in North Carolina. The Iowa ruling could impact other states with PMTA laws.

May 05, 2025 by inquirer.net

E-cigarettes, heated tobacco, nicotine pouches effective for quitting smoking – report

Harm-reduction tools like e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches help smokers quit effectively, as reported by the World Vapers Alliance (WVA). Scientific studies support that e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than traditional cigarettes. The WVA emphasizes that transitioning to these alternatives can reduce exposure to harmful substances, potentially lowering cancer risk. The WVA advocates for the acceptance of harm reduction strategies by the World Health Organization to aid in smoking cessation. This evidence-based approach has proven successful in countries like Sweden, the UK, and New Zealand. Vaping has been found to be twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapies in quitting smoking. Policymakers are urged to consider a variety of harm-reduction tools to reduce smoking-related diseases and improve public health outcomes.

May 05, 2025 by bbc.com

Are heated tobacco products a new health risk?

The text discusses the growing popularity of heated tobacco products like IQOS and their potential health risks. Tobacco companies claim these products are less harmful than cigarettes, but experts warn of health concerns, marketing to youth, and lack of long-term research. Studies show heated tobacco can lead to smoking, emissions may contain harmful chemicals, and dual use may increase health risks. Public health officials urge caution, as these products could encourage more tobacco consumption. Concerns also arise about the marketing tactics targeting young people. Research suggests heated tobacco may not be a safe alternative to smoking. Vigilance is key as these products enter the market.

May 02, 2025 by filtermag.org

Vape Bans Averted in TN and ND—Just Not for Public Health Reasons

State-level PMTA registry bills have posed a threat to vaping by potentially banning most products tied to FDA approval. Some states already shut down vape shops, limiting harm reduction options. Despite concerns, Tennessee and North Dakota revised their bills, shifting focus to US-made products. North Dakota abandoned its proposal due to advocacy efforts, emphasizing American-made items. Fear-based policymaking and misinformation still influence decisions, impacting harm reduction progress. The political shift reflects trade interests more than public health. However, the compromised bills in Tennessee and North Dakota preserve access to nicotine alternatives, pending Governor Lee's approval. Challenges persist for over 650,000 adult vapers in these states amidst ongoing regulatory uncertainties.