Stories

Five World Health Organisation tobacco control department staff earn more than UK and French leaders, with the top earner taking home around $300,000 annually. The Secretariat requested over $8.5 million to cover 19 staff for two years, seeking an 8% pay rise. The lowest-paid earns $96,930, well above global averages. Concerns were raised about prioritizing staff salaries over supporting Low and Medium Income Countries. Contributions from the UK, EU, and others mainly cover staff costs. Critics argue that funds could be used more efficiently. The FCTC Secretariat's high salaries are criticized as prioritizing self-interest over public health.

Nicotine pouches, recently legalized in the UAE, offer a "smoke-free" alternative but still pose addiction risks, cautioned by experts. The Ministry of Industry authorized their sale under strict regulations to reduce health risks. Although pouches decrease respiratory issues linked to smoking, they can impact cardiovascular health. While helpful in transitioning from cigarettes, doctors advise they are not a complete solution and stress the importance of proper usage and monitoring. Concerns include potential appeal to youth and lack of long-term safety studies. Regulations aim to ensure quality and safety, emphasizing the need for structured quitting plans. The effectiveness of nicotine pouches in reducing smoking prevalence in the UAE remains to be seen.

NHS services in Merseyside and Cheshire have imposed restrictions on publicly-funded IVF, including denying treatment to vapers. While lifestyle factors like smoking and BMI impact IVF success rates, the effects of vaping are less clear. Publicly-funded IVF faces funding limitations, leading to restrictions based on proven impacts. However, research on vaping's independent effects is inconclusive. Restrictions targeting vapers may be unjustified, as switching from smoking to vaping can improve fertility. The proposal aims to save money but could unfairly penalize vapers. A call for evidence-based policies is essential to ensure equitable access to IVF treatment. It remains crucial for the NHS to prioritize fair and evidence-based healthcare decisions.

Institutions like WHO, regulators, and NGOs are hostile to harm reduction and have shifted their firepower from smoking to safer nicotine alternatives, says Clive Bates, international tobacco control policy expert. Shot on location at GFN 2025 in Warsaw, Bates describes public health’s “war on nicotine” as a misguided, ideological crusade that betrays its original mission of reducing smoking-related disease and death.

A group of 83 leading public health experts has written to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, criticizing plans to tax smoke-free alternatives like e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches at the same level as cigarettes. They argue this contradicts scientific evidence, misinforms the public, and protects the cigarette trade. The experts point to successful harm reduction examples in Sweden, the UK, and New Zealand to support their case.

Barbados has made strides in reducing smoking rates but can do more, especially in addressing gender disparities. Ahead of COP11, the country can advocate for smarter tobacco policies based on harm reduction, such as vaping and nicotine pouches. Evidence shows harm reduction effectively lowers smoking rates, but global institutions often overlook it. Barbados should assert its leadership by pushing for a dedicated tobacco harm reduction working group at COP11. By prioritizing people's health over politics, Barbados can lead the way towards a smoke-free nation and set an example for other smaller countries. The time is now for Barbados to act decisively in supporting harm reduction and advocating for transparent, evidence-based tobacco control measures.

In this episode of GFN Voices 2025, pharmacology and toxicology expert Ingrid Taricano shares why harm reduction isn’t just an option—it’s at the very heart of toxicology. From medicines to food, and even safer alternatives to smoking, toxicology is about understanding limits and reducing risks. Hear Ingrid’s perspective on why science, policy, and public health must embrace harm reduction to create safer choices for people everywhere.

In 2024, a Monitoring the Future report revealed a shift with girls using marijuana more than boys, particularly through vaping. The trend reflects girls preferring vaping over smoking, influenced by attractive packaging and discreet use. Females also have a higher prevalence of vaping nicotine. Concerns arise about possible health risks associated with vaping. Girls' increased marijuana use may relate to biological factors and coping mechanisms for mental health issues. The shift highlights the need for tailored prevention strategies and addressing female-specific perceptions about substance use. Additionally, a recent seizure of illegal e-cigarettes emphasizes the importance of regulating vaping products to prevent underage use.

New regulations in Wisconsin ban the sale of electronic vaping devices not listed on a directory starting Sept. 1. There are currently 216 approved products. Hemp-containing, nicotine-free devices have until July 1, 2026, to comply. Violators face a $1,000 daily fine per device and potential seizure. The Department of Revenue manages the directory.

Caffeine pouches, popular among young people, can contain high levels of caffeine, reaching 200mg. These small packets resemble nicotine pouches and are placed between the lip and gums for quick absorption. Health professionals warn that excessive use can lead to health risks, including rapid heart rate and dependence. Companies selling these products deny targeting minors and claim to adhere to restrictions set by Health Canada. Experts stress the importance of limiting caffeine intake, with pediatricians advising a maximum of 200mg per day. Concerns also arise about potential long-term health effects, such as addiction and sleep problems. Regulations and clear health warnings on these products are recommended.