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In 2023, synthetic cannabis disguised as e-cigarettes became widespread in Korea, according to the National Forensic Service’s 2024 Drug Evaluation White Paper. The NFS handled 120,703 drug analysis requests, a 5.2% decrease from the previous year. While urine and hair test requests dropped, requests for testing seized substances rose by 12%, indicating a shift in enforcement focus from users to drug distributors.he page, the text article must be completed manually

A university study in Hong Kong found that almost 70% of under 25-year-olds have tried e-cigarettes, with 60% citing peer pressure. Another study showed over a third of regular smokers support plain cigarette packaging, planned by 2027. The government proposed 10 tobacco control measures in June last year, including banning flavoured cigarettes and alternative smoking products. Associate Professor Eva Ho Ka-yan expressed concerns about teenagers being misled by online promotions, making them think e-cigarettes are harmless. The accessibility of such products in clubs, bars, and online tutorials was highlighted. A research program engaged 2,000 individuals and assisted 2,500 in smoking cessation inquiries.

A lab study found pod-style e-cigarettes to be more addictive than nicotine gum, posing challenges for vapers trying to quit. E-cigarettes better reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms compared to gum, making users more satisfied. Researchers note e-cigarettes' potential to addict youth and young adults unfamiliar with nicotine due to their appealing design, flavors, and discreet use. Nicotine salts in e-cigarettes provide a smoother experience than traditional cigarettes. The study, published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research, suggests that pod-style e-cigarettes reinforce addiction more than nicotine gum, especially among young users.

Vapers are panic-buying disposable vapes before a UK ban on June 1, stocking up on their favorite flavors. The ban aims to reduce environmental impact and youth vaping. Concerns arise over the transition to rechargeable vapes, impacting ex-smokers like Baroness Fox. Retailers worry about losing customers to cigarettes post-ban. A poll reveals vapers' intentions post-ban, with some planning to stockpile or go back to smoking. Small businesses, heavily reliant on disposable vapes, fear losses. Despite regulations, vapers question the ban's effectiveness and accessibility of alternatives.

Most Canadians are unaware of the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), despite Canada signing and ratifying it 20 years ago. The treaty, adopted by 182 countries, influences smoking and harm reduction policies worldwide. In Canada, critics argue that FCTC’s strict regulations have led to a rigid, anti-harm-reduction stance that may be harming smokers seeking to quit.

A recent survey shows many doctors are unsure if nicotine causes cancer, impacting public health efforts. Nicotine itself isn't the main health concern in smoking; risks come from tobacco combustion. Nicotine replacements, like patches, are safe. Some doctors falsely fear products like e-cigarettes. This misunderstanding hinders patient care and harm reduction. Healthcare providers seek FDA guidance on safer smoking alternatives. Accurate education on nicotine is crucial to empower patients to make informed health decisions.

Research shows most teenage vapers had not smoked cigarettes before starting. The average age for starting e-cigarettes was 14. The study by the TobaccoFree Research Institute of Ireland revealed 76% of e-cig users had never tried traditional cigarettes first. While overall smoking rates are down, 13% of 16-year-old girls still smoke. Additionally, 36% had tried a nicotine product, and 24% admitted to trying smoking. Alcohol consumption among 15 to 16-year-olds has decreased, with two-thirds ever trying it and 28% ever getting drunk. The study highlights a rise in alternative tobacco products among teenagers.

A survey in Luxembourg showed a decrease in smoking rates, with 23% of residents smoking in 2024 compared to 27% in 2023. Concerns remain about the rising popularity of alternative nicotine products among young people, such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The Cancer Foundation calls for regulations to protect youth from these products. High levels of passive smoking were also highlighted. Efforts to help residents quit smoking are increasing, with 46% expressing a desire to quit, rising to 62% among 16- to 24-year-olds. A support campaign coinciding with World No Tobacco Day aims to assist those wanting to quit.

Recent regulatory activities in the nicotine industry involve the withdrawal of a proposed menthol ban on cigarettes in the U.S. and FDA's approval of ZYN nicotine pouch products. Proposals hint at limiting nicotine levels and antagonizing flavors. Regulatory policies seek good intentions but may raise smoking rates and create black markets. U.S. regulations delay reduced-risk products, favoring large companies. Flavors aid smoking cessation, especially with adult smokers. Bans can boost cigarette sales and illicit markets, endangering public health. The focus should be on evidence-based regulations allowing flavored options for adult smokers while curbing youth access. The goal is to reduce smoking-related harm through pragmatic approaches.

Despite joining the FCTC in 2004, Hungary has only seen a slight decrease in smoking rates over two decades. Recent adoption of harm reduction products like heated tobacco has led to significant reductions in cigarette consumption. The WHO's skepticism despite scientific evidence hinders progress. Illicit cigarette trade is growing due to bans on flavored HTPs. Hungary needs to consider the efficacy of harm reduction at COP11 to address the limitations of traditional anti-smoking policies.