Read articles from Global

May 02, 2025 by medium.com

Governments, WHO, and public interest groups obstruct the shift from deadly combustible cigarettes to safer alternatives like e-cigarettes. The transition, progressing rapidly in countries like Sweden and Japan, offers hope in ending smoking. Despite the reduced harm of new nicotine products, efforts to accelerate the switch face resistance. Influential bodies like WHO and nonprofits like Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids oppose e-cigarettes. Supported by Bloomberg, they hinder progress in low- and middle-income countries by advocating against safer options.

May 02, 2025 by peoplespharmacy.com

For decades, nicotine has been viewed primarily as a harmful and addictive substance — the main reason people become hooked on cigarettes and other tobacco products. Humans have used tobacco for over 12,000 years, whether by smoking, chewing, or sniffing it. In more recent years, pharmaceutical companies have developed nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges to help people quit smoking — all available without a prescription. However, new research is beginning to challenge this one-sided view. Scientists are now exploring whether nicotine might also offer potential therapeutic benefits. Some studies suggest it could help people suffering from long COVID or Alzheimer’s disease. This emerging perspective could change how we understand and use nicotine in modern medicine.

May 01, 2025 by news-medical.net

A study by Karolinska Institutet suggests higher cigarette taxes in low and middle-income countries could reduce child mortality, benefiting the poorest children. The research indicates that implementing WHO's recommended 75% tax could have potentially saved over 280,000 children's lives. The study analyzed data from 94 countries between 2008-2020, showing how increased cigarette taxes can improve child survival across all socioeconomic groups. Lead author Olivia Bannon emphasizes the importance of raising cigarette taxes to protect children's health, particularly in vulnerable populations. The study highlights the need to combat tobacco industry interference to implement effective tobacco control policies globally.

May 01, 2025 by news-medical.net

Nicotine pouch use doubled among U.S. high school students from 2023 to 2024, with 5.4% reporting usage. This emerging trend raises concerns, mirroring the past rise of flavored e-cigarettes. The FDA's decision to allow marketing of Zyn pouches to adults is controversial, given their popularity among teens. Research shows a demographic pattern favoring white males in rural areas. Both nicotine pouch and e-cigarette use increased in 2024, with more teens engaging in dual use. Long-term health effects are uncertain, but addiction risks persist. Preventative measures and regulation are crucial to address this public health issue. Tracking trends and evaluating policies are essential for targeted prevention strategies.

April 30, 2025 by protectingtaxpayers.org

The Taxpayers Protection Alliance discussed WHO's failures in tobacco control during a webinar marking the 20th anniversary of the FCTC. TPA criticized WHO for ignoring harm reduction benefits and advocating prohibition policies, leading to a growing black market for tobacco harm reduction products. The organization's reluctance to adapt to modern science and real-world solutions jeopardizes its credibility. TPA aims to hold WHO accountable through their Good COP/Bad COP campaign, urging the organization to prioritize public health over outdated policies. The webinar highlighted the urgent need for WHO reform and recognition of safer alternatives like vaping and heated tobacco products.

April 30, 2025 by theatlantic.com

The text discusses the popularity of flavored vapes, particularly the "Miami Mint" flavor, and the regulatory challenges they face. Chinese-made vapes, like many illicit products, are now subject to a 170% tariff due to Trump's trade war. The changing landscape may impact prices and affect consumer behavior. Despite health concerns, vapes can help smokers transition away from cigarettes. Legal vape options face competition from illegal counterparts with more variety and nicotine content. The tariffs could potentially benefit legal vape companies and deter underage vaping, despite drawbacks. Ultimately, the tariffs may offer a solution to the unregulated vaping market.

April 30, 2025 by nature.com

The study compared aerosol yields from conventional and electronic waterpipes, HTPs, and cigarettes. Conventional waterpipes may expose users to lower levels of harmful substances than cigarettes. Different charcoals or a heating device can reduce exposure. Electronic waterpipes showed significant reductions in toxicants. Findings align with existing literature, suggesting lower exposure with waterpipes compared to cigarettes. Emissions analysis corrects misconceptions about waterpipe nicotine content. Real-world use patterns impact exposure. Overall, exposure to harmful substances is lower with waterpipes and electronic devices compared to cigarettes. Innovative heating methods can further reduce toxicant exposure in waterpipes. Study limitations include standardized testing and assumptions on consumption patterns. In conclusion, waterpipes emit fewer toxins than cigarettes, with potential for decreased exposure through modifications.

April 30, 2025 by gfn.tv

In the third episode of our science special, Roberto Sussman looks at the thermal processes that take place in vaporisation, and the impact different solvents have on the vaporisation temperature of e-liquids.

April 29, 2025 by royalgazette.com

Nicotine pouches are becoming popular in Bermuda as a cleaner alternative to smoking and vaping, especially among younger consumers. These pouches release synthetic or tobacco-derived nicotine without tobacco leaves, appealing to users seeking a smoke-free option. The global nicotine pouch market is growing, with recent FDA approval in the US and success in Europe. Despite challenges like rising tariffs, interest in zero-nicotine options is on the rise. The pouches are gaining attention for potential health benefits, including research linking nicotine to improved cognitive function. The trend towards alternative tobacco products is expected to continue based on consumer health trends.

April 29, 2025 by filtermag.org

Kurt Yeo co-founded Vaping Saved My Life to promote tobacco harm reduction in South Africa. He switched from cigarettes to vapes after his father's smoking-related death and now advocates full-time. Yeo's VSML educates the public and challenges misinformation about vaping. Despite government opposition, he highlights how vaping can help combat smoking. Yeo's advocacy includes hosting a podcast, conducting surveys, and engaging with policymakers. South Africa faces challenges like the illicit cigarette trade and expensive smoking cessation aids. Yeo believes nicotine pouches could be a practical harm reduction solution. Policy changes aim to discourage vaping, but Yeo continues to fight for access to safer nicotine products to combat smoking rates.