Stories

In the second part of our science special, Roberto Sussman takes us through the fundamental physics of vape aerosols to help explain the difference between cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor!

Sarah Todd resumed reporting in January 2025 after working as an assignment editor at STAT from October 2022. A recent study at Massachusetts General Hospital found that young e-cigarette users who took varenicline with counseling were more successful in quitting vaping compared to those on a placebo. The research, authored by Eden Evins, highlights the effectiveness of this approach for controlling nicotine cravings among youth. This could lead to a significant shift in how healthcare providers address nicotine addiction in young people, as varenicline has shown promise as a treatment option. Vaping remains a concern among adolescents and young adults due to its addictive nature and health risks associated with nicotine exposure.

Four individuals involved in an illegal tobacco importing scheme in Gisborne were sentenced. Two men received home detention for defrauding Customs revenue and other charges, while an older couple was fined and ordered to pay court costs for their lesser roles. Customs discovered undeclared cigarettes and loose tobacco disguised as Chinese tea in airmail packages, totaling 306,200 cigarettes and 110kg of tobacco. The operation involved selling the goods in a restaurant. Customs' investigations led to the discovery of cash and tobacco products, resulting in charges under the Customs and Excise Act 2018. Customs Officer Bevan Cameron highlighted the significant duty evasion and fraud involved.

Vaping addiction is mainly due to nicotine in e-cigarettes, not the flavors. However, flavors like menthol can increase usage frequency, especially among young people. Research shows that sweet flavors attract youth to vaping, contributing to nicotine dependence. Efforts have been made to regulate vaping products due to health concerns and their appeal to teens. The FDA oversees restrictions on sales and bans flavored products. Despite regulations, flavored e-cigarettes remain popular among teens. Manufacturers must consider the appeal of their products in addressing addiction issues and promoting public health.

A study linked electronic cigarette use to a higher risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). E-cigarettes simulate traditional cigarettes and may worsen respiratory conditions, affecting the efficacy of CPAP treatment for sleep apnea. The meta-analysis included 7 observational studies with over 35 million individuals, showing a 1.50-fold increased risk of COPD among e-cigarette users compared to non-users. Prospective cohort and cross-sectional studies revealed a 52% to 55% greater risk of COPD among e-cigarette users. This research highlights the potential negative impact of e-cigarette use on respiratory health, with implications for COPD prevention and management.

Tobacco control opposes nicotine pouches due to concerns about targeting children, but Philip Morris International's ZYN adopts responsible marketing practices, emphasizing safety for adult users. ZYN's strategy excludes influencers and celebrities, ensuring age-appropriate marketing. Although some critics suggest youth targeting through flavors and colors, ZYN's subdued branding defies this narrative. Grassroots enthusiasm and organic content differentiate ZYN's marketing approach, diverging from typical influencer strategies. Despite stringent age-gating measures and limited ad platforms, skepticism persists. The tension reflects broader societal mistrust and bias. ZYN's efforts to prevent underage use receive scrutiny from tobacco control, hinting at underlying motives in the anti-smoking agenda.

Arkansas passed its PMTA registry law, banning some vaping products with unclear e-liquids requirements. The law requires products to meet specific criteria and be listed in the directory by Sept. 1, 2025. It exempts open-system devices with replaceable batteries but not products with built-in batteries. Violators face penalties, and packaging restrictions target child-appealing designs. Arkansas restricts personal possession and importation of unregistered products. This law is only the second in the U.S. to ban personal possession of vaping products. More states are introducing PMTA registry bills in 2025, following Mississippi's lead. Consumer advocacy groups are mobilizing against these bills across the country.

In 2016, PMI pledged to transition the company away from cigarette sales - and almost ten years later, they've made progress towards their promise. But instead of celebrating as 40% of PMI's business goes smoke-free, many in tobacco control would rather stand in the way. Why is that? And can anything be done to change their minds?

British disposable vape ban announcement in 2024 led to a decline in e-cigarette use rates, with users switching to refillable devices. A study tracked these changes, highlighting the influence of policy on health decisions. Since 2021, youth vaping surged due to disposable vapes' appeal, prompting UK bans in 2025. Manufacturers now offer reusable alternatives. Findings suggest a shift away from disposables, indicating potential declines in vape usage. Policies play a crucial role in curbing vaping trends. Researchers analyzed data from the Smoking Toolkit Study, revealing a shift towards refillable devices post-ban. The move towards sustainability in vaping indicates positive environmental impacts but may not drastically reduce overall vaping rates.

The Ministry of Health is now accepting applications for the Tobacco Sales License, required under the Tobacco Control Act's recent amendment. A valid license from the Health Ministry is necessary for wholesale and retail sellers of tobacco products. Applications must be submitted within three months via the OneGov portal. Four licenses are needed for tobacco sales, each with a five-year validity and specific fees. Renewal applications should be made 60 days before the license expires. The fees range from MVR 5,000 for wholesale and retail to MVR 10,000 for import and re-export. Violations can result in fines from MVR 1,000 to MVR 1,000,000 and license revocation.