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March 18, 2026 by thehill.com

Smokeless nicotine products are increasingly viewed as a transitional tool to help military members quit traditional cigarettes. Experts note that tobacco use is deeply ingrained in military culture, making cessation particularly challenging. Health professionals, including Stephen Ferrara, emphasize the severe long-term consequences of smoking, such as stroke and critical limb ischemia. They argue that moving away from combustible cigarettes can significantly reduce these health risks. Overall, harm reduction strategies are being promoted as a practical step toward improving the health of service members and veterans.

March 18, 2026 by regulatorwatch.com

The FDA's nicotine regulation in the US is criticized for hindering safer nicotine products while allowing harmful cigarettes. Dr. Ian Fearon explains the challenges in the regulatory system, including a high number of PMTA applications and fluctuating standards. The rise of illicit markets and a decline in youth vaping are also discussed. The FDA's failure to adapt is questioned.

March 18, 2026 by regulatorwatch.com

The FDA's nicotine regulation in the US is criticized for hindering safer nicotine products while allowing harmful cigarettes. Dr. Ian Fearon explains the challenges in the regulatory system, including a high number of PMTA applications and fluctuating standards. The rise of illicit markets and a decline in youth vaping are also discussed. The FDA's failure to adapt is questioned.

March 17, 2026 by news-medical.net

A recent analysis of NHIS data showed a decrease in U.S. adult cigarette smoking, but tobacco use persists with disparities among different groups. Nearly one in five adults uses tobacco, contributing to preventable diseases. The 2024 survey revealed 18.8% of adults used tobacco, with different products like e-cigarettes and cigars gaining popularity. Men, younger adults, lower-income groups, and rural residents showed higher tobacco use. Occupational sectors like agriculture had high rates. While cigarette smoking decreased, efforts are needed to address tobacco use variations and support cessation programs, especially for high-risk populations. These conclusions are based on self-reported survey data, with some comparisons impacted by survey differences.

March 16, 2026 by nytimes.com

The Food and Drug Administration announced that it will allow certain flavored e-cigarettes that are considered more appealing to adults. This decision marks a shift from the agency’s earlier attempt to ban fruit and candy-flavored vapes, which had not been successful because such products continued to appear on the market. According to the new policy, the agency may permit flavors like mint, coffee, tea, and spices such as clove or cinnamon. However, the FDA stated that it will still reject e-cigarettes with sweet or fruity flavors because they are more attractive to teenagers.

March 10, 2026 by cspdailynews.com

States are considering excise tax increases on tobacco products to generate revenue, with a focus on new products like nicotine pouches. Lawmakers in 20 states are proposing higher taxes on cigarettes and vaping products to address budget shortfalls. Critics argue that such taxes can lead to illegal tobacco sales and economic distortions. Data shows a decline in youth tobacco and nicotine usage, supporting the argument against new taxes. The regressive nature of excise taxes is highlighted, with lower-income individuals affected more. As states continue to deliberate on tax hikes, there are concerns about the impact on retailers and the availability of FDA-approved alternatives for adult consumers.

March 10, 2026 by yahoo.com

Conservative MP Jivani promoted the unapproved nicotine product Zyn on a campus tour, with attendees flaunting their canisters at a Vancouver event. B.C. MLA Bhangu endorsed Zyn to curb smoking, while politicians like Smith and Nally advocate for easier access to nicotine pouches. These pouches, marketed as safer alternatives, deliver nicotine through the gums and are popular among young adults. However, their health impacts remain uncertain, with limited research on long-term effects and effectiveness in quitting smoking. Health Canada restricts sales of Zonnic, leading to criticism from conservatives who view it as excessive regulation. Despite calls for relaxed rules, Health Canada defends its measures to deter youth usage.

March 10, 2026 by nytimes.com

The agency is proposing allowing other tastes for vapes, like mint, coffees, spices or tea, to appeal to adults. At the same time, illicit candy-flavored types aimed at teenagers have flooded the market.

March 03, 2026 by globalnews.ca

Alberta Premier is challenging Ottawa's restrictions on nicotine pouches, claiming they hinder smoking cessation efforts and increase youth access. The rules allow sales only at pharmacies, with one approved brand. Alberta argues for equal retail access and criticizes the regulations' impact on the black market and youth exposure. Proposing a shift to a more accessible model for smoking cessation products, they aim to align with federal policies. Concerns include unregulated online sales to minors and the need for a balanced approach to reduce youth appeal.

March 02, 2026 by themarijuanaherald.com

Florida medical cannabis dispensaries have sold around 3 billion mg of THC and close to 1 million ounces of smokable cannabis by February 20, 2026, per the Office of Medical Marijuana Use. Weekly sales have ranged from 366 million to 431 million mg of THC and over 130,000 ounces of smokable marijuana. With 932,890 active patients, Florida is poised to exceed 5 billion mg of THC sales soon, solidifying its status as a leading medical marijuana program in the U.S. The market remains strong with sales continuing to rise steadily.