Read articles from Global

October 22, 2025 by philstar.com

A recent report questions the World Health Organization's independence due to significant donations by Bloomberg Philanthropies and undisclosed "dark money". The report highlights concerns over global health policies being influenced by donor-driven agendas, outlining instances where powerful financial interests, like Bloomberg, have shaped WHO's strategies, particularly in tobacco control. Transparency issues arise from the acceptance of undisclosed corporate funds by the WHO Foundation. Allegations point to Bloomberg's influence on public policy globally, bypassing democratic processes. The report urges reforms for accountability, inclusion of diverse voices, and respect for national sovereignty within the WHO's framework to prevent outside influences on health policies.

October 22, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

A peer-reviewed study in Marketing Science shows that direct-to-consumer ads for prescription smoking-cessation drugs reduce cigarette use, while ads for over-the-counter products do not. The research emphasizes the impact of advertising on public health goals for smoking cessation. Insurance coverage influences how ads affect behavior, with strong coverage leading to larger declines in cigarette sales. Ads for prescription products also boosted demand for alternative methods. The study highlights how the effectiveness of advertising depends on therapy accessibility and affordability. Policymakers should consider these findings when regulating pharmaceutical advertising. The research analyzed advertising effects on cigarette consumption, showing that a 10% reduction in ads leads to increased cigarette sales.

October 21, 2025 by frontiersin.org

The focus on tobacco control has been on reducing usage rather than regulating product toxicity. Implementing FCTC's Articles 9 and 10 to lower toxic emissions has been delayed, highlighting the need for setting emission thresholds for toxicants. A shift towards a science-based regulatory approach, targeting priority toxicants, can accelerate harm reduction for the 1 billion smokers worldwide. The upcoming 11th FCTC Conference of the Parties in 2025 offers an opportunity to develop a toxicity reduction strategy. A dynamic, evidence-based regulatory framework, similar to other sectors, can enhance public health by categorizing products based on emission benchmarks and promoting harmful product awareness through clear labeling.

October 21, 2025 by vaping360.com

Ireland will tax all e-liquid (with or without nicotine) at a rate of €0.50 per milliliter. For open-system vapers, the price of a 10 mL bottle of e-liquid (the legal maximum size in the European Union) will essentially double. The prices of every disposable or pod vape will increase significantly too.

October 20, 2025 by gfn.tv

Belgium is rapidly tightening its vaping and smoking rules — from banning disposable e-cigarettes in January 2025 to prohibiting outdoor smoking and vaping on terraces from 2027, and removing smoking rooms in bars, airports, and shisha lounges. In this interview, Joanna speaks with Alberto Gómez Hernández, Policy Manager at the World Vapers’ Alliance, about what’s changing, why it’s happening, and whether these measures.

October 20, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

A recent study suggesting harmful chemicals are released when vape liquids are heated has been criticized for using unrealistic lab tests. Harm reduction experts argue that real-world vaping conditions differ. Research has shown heating propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin may create toxic byproducts, but harm is minimal when vaped as designed. Human studies found no respiratory or eye issues from propylene glycol exposure. After over 15 years of vaping, no serious harm linked to these ingredients has been found. Extreme lab tests may mislead as users would avoid inhaling burnt vapor.

October 20, 2025 by substack.com

The WHO presented anti-smoking policies for discussion, including a ban on cigarette filters. Despite arguments for its harm reduction, research shows filtered cigarettes lower lung cancer risk compared to unfiltered ones. Opponents claim filters mislead smokers, suggesting a ban without considering consumer beliefs or overall health impacts. Evidence suggests filters may indeed offer some protection. Conflicting views exist within the anti-smoking lobby on tobacco regulation strategies. Ethical concerns and contradictory stances surround the debate, such as the effectiveness of low tar cigarettes and the implications of banning filters. The argument for a ban lacks a clear justification and overlooks potential consequences on smoking-related diseases.

October 17, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

A former WHO director criticizes the agency for neglecting science on tobacco harm reduction, impacting efforts to reduce smoking in the Asia-Pacific. Despite evidence supporting safer alternatives, WHO maintains an anti-harm reduction stance, citing vape and heated tobacco products as harmful. With the Asia-Pacific region having a high smoking rate, advocates push for evidence-driven coalitions to promote harm reduction. Ahead of COP11, calls intensify for WHO to prioritize harm reduction to aid smokers switching from cigarettes. The focus is on the need for factual communication, proportional regulation, and acknowledging vaping's role in reducing harm and helping smokers quit.

October 17, 2025 by iol.co.za

A grieving Singaporean father is campaigning to protect teens from drug-laced vapes (KPods) after his 19-year-old daughter died from using them. Despite being banned, vaping among youth is rising in Singapore and the wider Southern Asia region. The government is tightening laws and penalties, while the father aims to raise awareness and prevent further tragedies.

October 17, 2025 by gfn.tv

Extending THR into other disciplines and communities, is essential. Obvious targets are in the fields of drug use and mental health - evidence is clear concerning levels of smoking and associated health risks - but there is need to engage more widely. The panel addressed the barriers to extending reach, including how can we dispel myths and tackle miscommunication? What role does the media have in the process? Who are the key opinion leaders and groups, what are the initial steps in reaching out and how can we support ongoing dialogue?