Read articles from Oceania

February 11, 2025 by filtermag.org

A study published in the Addiction journal indicates that nicotine vaping can help reduce health disparities, particularly for low-income and Indigenous groups. The research compares smoking and vaping trends in Australia and New Zealand from 2016 to 2023. New Zealand's more supportive vaping regulations led to a faster decline in smoking, especially in disadvantaged communities. The study suggests that embracing vaping as a harm reduction strategy could significantly reduce smoking rates and health inequalities. Other countries are encouraged to consider similar regulations to benefit high-risk populations.

February 10, 2025 by wiley.com

Comparing regulatory models for nicotine vaping products in different countries can provide insights into the most effective regulatory approach but can be confounded by cross-national differences. This study compared two neighbouring countries with very different vaping regulatory models but with similar tobacco control policies and population demographics. Australia has a highly restrictive, prescription-only vaping policy, while New Zealand adopted a regulated consumer model.

January 31, 2025 by wearesa.au

Nicotine pouches, also known as Zyn or snus, are banned in South Australia due to their popularity, especially among young people. The pouches, marketed as alternatives to vapes and tobacco, are now subject to strict controls and fines of up to $1.5 million for sellers. These small pouches deliver nicotine quickly into the bloodstream and come in various flavors, often targeting children and young adults. The State Government is taking action under new legislation to combat illicit tobacco and vaping markets.

January 30, 2025 by ama.com.au

AMA SA President Dr. John Williams has supported the South Australian Government's crackdown on the illegal sale of nicotine pouches. He warns that these products are unregulated, may contain high levels of nicotine, and include unknown chemicals. Available in flavors appealing to children, nicotine pouches are becoming increasingly popular among young people—25% of surveyed individuals aged 16–39 admitted to using them. Dr. Williams cautions that nicotine pouches could become the next major youth health threat.

January 30, 2025 by 9news.com.au

The South Australian government banned the sale of highly potent nicotine pouches, similar to banned illegal vapes, due to health concerns and targeting of young people. Pouches can contain up to 120mg of nicotine, far exceeding cigarette levels. Health and Consumer Affairs Ministers expressed concerns about the unknown contents, high nicotine levels, and appeal to youth. Fines up to $1.5 million will apply to sellers. The ban aligns with previous measures against emerging tobacco products. The actions aim to protect public health and safety in South Australia.

January 24, 2025 by youtube.com

This episode features Dr. Mendelsohn discussing vaping’s role in harm reduction, societal misconceptions, the stigma smokers face, and the impact of Australia’s restrictive vaping policies.

January 21, 2025 by rnz.co.nz

General practitioners express concern over government funding for vaping kits to aid smokers in quitting under the Smokefree 2025 plan, citing health risks and limited success rates. Despite government claims of reduced smoking rates due to vaping, GP Aotearoa urges for more evidence-based decisions and transparency, mentioning potential risks like lung damage and links to cancer. While the government defends vaping's effectiveness in smoking cessation, GP Aotearoa calls for reassessment and consultation with healthcare professionals. The group remains open to evidence-based strategies to reduce smoking rates and enhance public health, emphasizing the need for further research on vaping's long-term effects.

January 20, 2025 by technologynetworks.com

Australian researchers have identified how chemicals in cigarette smoke and e-cigarettes impact immune cells in the lungs, making smokers more vulnerable to respiratory infections and worsening conditions like COPD. Published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, the study reveals cigarette smoke hampers immune responses and exacerbates lung diseases. The research team found that components in smoke affect immune cells' functions and could lead to developing more effective COPD treatments. By studying MAIT cells, researchers observed reduced cell function in smoke-exposed mice, emphasizing the role of cigarette smoke in weakening immune defense and promoting lung diseases.

January 07, 2025 by times.co.nz

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ criticizes the Government's use of vaping starter kits for smoking cessation, calling it irresponsible. Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello plans to provide vaping kits through Stop Smoking Services, aiming to help smokers quit. Despite vaping's role in reducing smoking rates, concerns over long-term effects and lack of consultation with experts are raised. The Foundation stresses the importance of a clear exit strategy from nicotine addiction. Costello defends the initiative as part of efforts to achieve Smokefree 2025 goals by targeting the right audience with effective tools. Collaboration across the health sector is key to encouraging referrals to stop smoking services.

January 06, 2025 by abc.net.au

The Queensland government reports that criminal gangs are heavily involved in the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes, despite ongoing police raids. Health Minister Tim Nicholls revealed that 350-400 stores, including repeat offenders, are currently under surveillance by Queensland Health. Nicholls emphasized the need for stronger action, stating that on-the-spot fines fail to deter offenders. He advocated for financial penalties targeting criminal gangs' profits as a more effective deterrent.