Stories

Israel’s Knesset has approved a new bill requiring graphic health warnings not only on cigarette packs but also on e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, rolling papers, and loose tobacco. This makes Israel one of the first countries to extend such regulations to all tobacco and nicotine products. The decision comes just days before World No Tobacco Day, as the Israel Cancer Association revealed alarming data: 31% of Israeli smokers began or resumed smoking due to stress and anxiety related to the war that started on October 7, 2023.

In this episode of GFN News, Will Godfrey highlights a recent interview between Kiran Sidhu and renowned philosopher Dr. Sridhar Venkatapuram exploring the intersection of philosophy and public health, and the ethical support for tobacco harm reduction using safer nicotine products.

Wealthy EU countries are urging the European Commission to revisit plans for a minimum tax on e-cigarettes and raise excise duties on tobacco products, proposed by Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. The plan faces opposition from countries with lower tax rates and those investing in innovative tobacco. Italy warns against hindering innovation, as sharp tax hikes could increase smuggling. Concerns are raised over proposed high taxes on new tobacco products lacking EU regulation. The push for a unified EU policy on alternative tobacco products is suggested to address rising smuggling issues. Drastic tax hikes may not be suitable now, as they could strain resources and enforcement without substantial benefits.

A report warns that the upcoming disposable vapes ban could lead to 200,000 people reverting to smoking, potentially hindering the UK's progress towards a smoke-free nation. Concerns arise as 45% of vapers use disposable devices, with the highest prevalence among young adults. The ban may prompt 12% of users to switch back to smoking, while the majority plan to switch to other vapes or consider alternative nicotine replacement therapies. Suggestions include stricter regulations on vape products and a national anti-smoking campaign. Urgent action is advised to prevent unintended consequences and prioritize reducing youth vaping rates.

Outright prohibition of vapes and safer alternatives to cigarettes is the preferred policy of many in tobacco control. Yet it is hard to imagine anything worse. I summarise the arguments against.

The European Commission and WHO spread misinformation linking vaping to smoking, hindering harm reduction efforts. Officials like Commissioner Hoekstra falsely equate vaping with smoking, ignoring evidence and discouraging smokers from switching. The WHO director mistakenly claims all tobacco is equally harmful, disregarding vaping's safer profile. This misinformation leads to more deaths and disease by deterring smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. The upcoming EU directive reviews offer a chance to correct this harmful trend with evidence-based regulation. As World Vape Day nears, contrasting celebrations highlight vaping's success in helping millions quit smoking. It's crucial for the EU Commission and WHO to prioritize public health over ideology and end their harmful stance on harm reduction.

France has imposed severe penalties for carrying nicotine pouches, harsher than for drugs like heroin. Brits could face five years in jail and a £320,000 fine. The crackdown has been criticized as disproportionate, with warnings that well-meaning tourists could unknowingly break the law. The ban, the strictest in Europe, aims to preserve public health but has sparked controversy. It may lead to a black market and affect athletes using pouches for performance enhancement. Despite concerns, French officials proceeded with the ban, leaving many questioning the logic of making carrying a pouch more dangerous than carrying heroin.

Dutch teenagers' vaping rate rose to 7.6%, while smoking increased slightly among 12 to 18-year-olds. Conversely, young adults' vaping decreased to 8.6%. The sale of flavored vape liquids has been banned since 2024, but a black market thrives. Instances of severe health issues due to vaping have been reported, prompting government action. The health ministry is considering raising the legal age to 21, criminalizing flavored vape sales, and advocating for stricter EU regulations on e-cigarettes.

The World Health Organization's focus on protecting youth from tobacco industry influence during World No Tobacco Day overlooks the needs of the 1.3 billion adult smokers. Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of harm reduction products like e-cigarettes, the WHO continues to advocate for restricting access to these alternatives. While concerns about youth vaping are valid, data shows a decline in usage. The WHO's approach neglects the reasons why youth turn to vaping, such as stress relief. Prioritizing youth protection over adult harm reduction fails to address the complexities of smoking cessation. A shift towards acknowledging and supporting adult smokers in accessing all cessation options is essential for effective global tobacco control efforts.

Lindsey Stroud joins us for the second part of our USA special exploring the FDA's approach to safer products, and whether a change in approach is likely at the agency controlling the addition of new safer products to the market.