Read articles from North America

July 17, 2024 by iwf.org

The Kentucky Department of Education's 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows a decline in traditional tobacco use among middle and high school students, with vaping rates also dropping significantly. Combustible cigarette use decreased by 39.4% and current use by 48.8% from 2019 to 2023. Vaping rates among students also saw reductions, with ever-use down by 26.1% and current use by 38.7% over the same period. While policymakers are encouraged by the findings, they must remain cautious not to inadvertently increase the use of other harmful tobacco products among youth. Expert Lindsey Stroud emphasizes the importance of vigilance in tobacco control efforts.

July 16, 2024 by bloomberg.com

Philip Morris International Inc. is investing $600 million in a new manufacturing facility in Aurora, Colorado, to meet rising demand for Zyn oral nicotine pouches in the US. The facility will be operational by the end of next year, with full production expected by 2026.

July 16, 2024 by nbcnews.com

Philip Morris International is investing $600 million in a new production facility in Colorado to meet the high demand for Zyn nicotine pouches in the U.S. The move aims to shift smokers to healthier alternatives and create 500 jobs with an annual economic impact of $550 million. Despite questions about Zyn's safety, PMI asserts it as a better option than traditional cigarettes. The FDA warns about nicotine addiction and prohibits sales to those under 21.

July 15, 2024 by ecigclick.co.uk

A study by NBER examined the impact of vape flavor bans on smoking and youth vaping rates in the USA. Eight states implemented temporary or permanent bans from October 2019 to July 2020. Results showed minimal decline in banned flavor use for youths and adults, but an increase in smoking rates, especially among young adults. Despite the intended effects, flavor restrictions may lead to unintended consequences, with a 1-3% increase in combustible cigarette smoking. The study suggests that the bans may have negative tobacco-related health consequences. Access to banned flavors through alternative sources and black markets may have influenced the post-ban trends.

July 12, 2024 by news-medical.net

A recent study reveals low nicotine pouch usage among U.S. adults despite booming sales. While some see them as a smoking cessation aid, concerns over attracting youth persist. Among 39,557 adults surveyed, only 2.9% tried pouches, mostly current smokers. Notably, pouches were less popular among those under 65. Many smokers opt for e-cigarettes instead. Experts worry adults might use pouches to enhance nicotine intake, worsening addiction. Regulators weigh potential benefits against risks, as FDA reviews major pouch manufacturers' applications. Research indicates limited adult pouch usage for smoking cessation. The study suggests evidence for tobacco product regulation amidst concerns over attracting youth users.

July 12, 2024 by medicalxpress.com

A study analyzed the low prevalence of nicotine pouch use in U.S. adults despite a 641% increase in sales. Nicotine pouches, a new tobacco product, have raised concerns about attracting youth users. Some adults use them as an alternative to quit smoking, but data on adult use is limited. Research found 2.9% of adults in a sample ever used pouches, with 0.4% current users. Majority of pouch users also smoke cigarettes. Regulators are reviewing pouches for potential risks, like increased nicotine dependence among youth. The study suggests adults may not be using pouches to quit smoking effectively. Researchers are investigating adolescent pouch use and its relation to other nicotine products.

July 11, 2024 by dcjournal.com

Nearly 250 years ago, the Continental Congress declared America independent from Britain and birthed a new nation. Now, to millions of Americans, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are still threatened by the leading cause of preventable death: smoking. However, thanks to innovative science and research, we now have smoke-free options that offer current smokers a much better alternative to continued smoking.

July 11, 2024 by cbc.ca

Nicotine pouches are sold in convenience stores in Newfoundland and Labrador — but proposed federal regulations could put a stop to that. Other provinces like B.C. and Quebec have moved the product behind pharmacy counters, and the federal health minister has signaled he wants the rest of the country to follow suit. Dr. Leslie Phillips thinks it’s a good idea, but a retail group representing convenience stores across the country disagrees.

July 10, 2024 by iwf.org

The 2023 North Carolina Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows a decline in youth vaping and low traditional tobacco product use. However, there are increases in certain areas. High school combustible cigarette use remains steady, daily use has risen since 2021, but decreased since 2019. E-cigarette use is decreasing among high schoolers. Middle school combustible cigarette use has fallen overall but increased recently, while e-cigarette use fluctuates. Reasons for e-cigarette use include curiosity and self-medication for stress. Policymakers must balance adult harm-reduction needs with addressing youth tobacco trends. While youth vaping rates are lower than in 2019, recent increases emphasize the challenges of tobacco regulation.

July 05, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

New York City's mayor seeks a Manhattan judge's immediate intervention to stop 11 wholesalers from selling illegal flavored vapes. The city's lawsuit, filed in April, highlights the concerning rise in youth addiction to flavored e-cigarettes. City lawyers are now pushing for a preliminary injunction to cease these harmful practices swiftly. Mayor Adams emphasizes the urgency of preventing vape distribution to children. Investigators were able to place orders directly with the wholesalers, uncovering incriminating sales invoices. The legal action aims to hold these distributors accountable and protect the youth during litigation.