Read articles from United States of America

May 03, 2024 by fingerlakes1.com

Swedish snus, a cultural icon from Sweden, offers a unique nicotine experience spreading globally, including the U.S. Known for its rich history and innovative varieties, such as traditional and tobacco-free options, Swedish snus appeals to a diverse audience for its quality and authenticity. As it gains popularity abroad, especially in the American market, Swedish snus showcases a blend of tradition and innovation, positioning it as a sought-after product in the evolving global consumer landscape. The future looks promising for Swedish snus, with growing interest in international products and changing consumer preferences driving its potential expansion and integration into daily routines worldwide.

May 01, 2024 by 9news.com.au

The US DEA plans to reclassify marijuana as less harmful, recognizing its medical uses and lower potential for abuse. This proposal, pending review, would move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, following health department advice. President Biden supports this change, aiming to right past convictions. DEA's move aims to align with public sentiment towards marijuana, increasingly accepted and decriminalized. However, critics warn of risks, such as marijuana's possible gateway effect. The shift could impact the industry economically, improving research opportunities and reducing tax burdens.

April 30, 2024 by fda.gov

On April 30, 2024, the FDA, DOJ, and U.S. Marshals Service seized over $700,000 worth of unauthorized e-cigarette products in Alhambra, CA, mainly from California-based distributors. The enforcement aims to combat the illegal sale of flavored e-cigarettes, including brands enticing to youth. This joint action was the first seizure involving tobacco products by the agencies. FDA continues to crack down on unauthorized e-cigarettes across the supply chain, having issued numerous warning letters and penalties. They have granted marketing authorization to some legal tobacco-flavored e-cigarette products in the U.S.

April 25, 2024 by realclearhealth.com

FDA Commissioner Califf spoke at a hearing, incorrectly labeling tobacco harm reduction as an industry term. Dr. Rodu challenges this, advocating for harm reduction to save the 480,000 American lives lost yearly due to cigarettes. He argues for safer nicotine alternatives, stressing the need for realistic public health policies over prohibition. Rodu emphasizes the parallels between nicotine and caffeine, calling for a shift towards evidence-based strategies to combat smoking-related illnesses. The narrative around nicotine's risks is critiqued, highlighting the potential benefits of harm reduction. Ultimately, the focus should be on saving lives by providing adult smokers with choices to quit and lead healthier lives.

April 23, 2024 by regulatorwatch.com

Does the regulator responsible for overseeing tobacco products in the U.S. believe in the practice of tobacco harm reduction? According to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, the answer is a resounding no. Appearing before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Califf repeatedly dismissed THR as an “industry term” and refused to answer questions on the topic. Joining us today to discuss the ramifications of the commissioner’s testimony is Tony Abboud, executive director of the Vapor Technology Association. We review informed questioning by U.S. House Reps and take a deep dive into problematic responses by the commissioner.

April 18, 2024 by townhall.com

Nearly 70 House Representatives urge the Biden Administration to speed up approval processes for smokefree products, highlighting their potential to reduce harm. Republicans emphasize the FDA's slow authorization for safer products compared to traditional tobacco. Delays benefit deadly cigarettes over innovation. Democrats' resistance contradicts public health interests, hindering harm reduction efforts. Misinformation fuels their push for restrictions on products proven to drive down smoking rates. Calls for informed decisions and equal access to alternatives aim to empower smokers.

April 16, 2024 by csnews.com

The FDA, under court order, has not completed all PMTA reviews for vape products, leading to concerns about harmful e-cigarettes being sold to children. Senator Durbin criticized the FDA and DOJ for not enforcing laws against manufacturers selling unauthorized vaping products. Despite warning letters and marketing denial orders, some companies continue to sell unauthorized vaping items in violation of the law, prompting calls for stricter enforcement actions.

April 15, 2024 by suntimes.com

Youth vaping and illegal vape products are prevalent in stores and schools, with peers adept at hiding them. Packaging entices kids with flavors and appealing designs. Illinois considers House Bill 5069 to regulate vapes, ensuring compliance with state and federal law. The bill aims to list legal products, deterring the sale of illegal ones. A reader opposes President Biden's free education proposal, highlighting the need for upfront payment at graduation. President Trump's judicial bias is criticized, questioning fairness in court cases involving judges with ties to him. Despite O.J. Simpson's controversies, a reader hopes his death raises awareness for prostate cancer screening.

April 15, 2024 by filtermag.org

The United States has invested heavily in military hardware, but has overlooked tech innovations that could save lives and costs. High smoking rates among active-duty military and veterans pose health risks and financial burdens. Harm-reduction strategies like vaping offer effective smoking cessation but are underutilized by the government. Technology reducing smoke exposure from nicotine products can greatly decrease health risks. Other countries are ahead in adopting such strategies, while the US lags. Embracing innovation in tobacco harm reduction is crucial for improving veterans' health and well-being. The Veterans Administration must prioritize these advancements to better support those who served.

April 12, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

Consumer advocates criticized the FDA for failing to provide safer nicotine alternatives in a House Oversight hearing. The agency's slow approval process leaves adult consumers with limited options to transition from cigarettes. Only a few products have been authorized out of over 26 million applications, causing concerns about pushing consumers towards the illicit market. Urgent action is needed to prioritize access to scientifically validated alternatives like e-cigarettes. Philip Morris International also called for a transparent regulatory pathway that supports harm reduction principles.