Stories

New research reveals that smoking one cigarette reduces life expectancy by about 20 minutes. The study by University College London looked at data from the British Doctors Study and the Million Women Study. Women lose around 22 minutes of life per cigarette, compared to 17 minutes for men. Earlier estimates were lower, with smoking believed to shorten life by 11 minutes. Smoking remains a major preventable cause of death globally and quitting at any age has health benefits. Combining behavioral support with stop-smoking medications increases success rates. Globally, tobacco-related deaths exceed those from AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis combined.

A study focused on helping people quit vaping suggests that varenicline and text message-based interventions are effective. Cochrane reviews indicate a preference for e-cigarettes over traditional nicotine replacement therapies. Programs using text messages seem beneficial for young people, while varenicline shows potential for adults. However, more research is needed due to limited studies. The study emphasizes the importance of finding safe ways to quit vaping, especially for those who are transitioning from smoking. Ongoing research is crucial to explore and recommend effective strategies for different populations aiming to quit vaping, with a focus on continuous review and updates.

CAPHRA supports Thailand's shift towards more inclusive e-cigarette regulations for harm reduction, highlighting the importance of considering all stakeholders' perspectives. The committee aims to present alternative solutions by December, moving beyond prohibition to regulate e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The organisation advocates for evidence-based policies that do not criminalize e-cigarette users, while addressing youth use concerns and recognizing benefits for adult smokers. They believe Thailand's approach could be a positive model for the region, promoting public health and individual choice. CAPHRA encourages further research, dialogue, and collaboration with stakeholders to improve harm reduction outcomes.

In the second episode of our UK Tobacco and Vape Bill special, Martin Cullip highlights the potential consequences of this latest legislation, and asks, is the UK at risk of damaging its world-leading tobacco harm reduction record?

Iowa delayed enforcing a new law on vaping product sales due to pending litigation. The law mandates FDA authorization for sales, with a registry to be published. Lawsuit plaintiffs claim federal preemption and unfair restrictions. The state agreed to delay enforcement hearings until March 5, citing a need for clarification and staff availability. The law, backed by tobacco lobbyists, was signed in May 2024. Plaintiffs argue the FDA's selective enforcement and limited approved products will harm retailers. They also claim discrimination between tobacco- and non-tobacco-derived nicotine products. Plaintiffs suggest incoming administration changes may affect FDA policies on pending applications.

The Department for Health and Social Care is allocating an extra £70 million in 2025-2026 to support local stop smoking services, aiming to create a smoke-free generation. Funding is distributed to areas based on smoking prevalence, targeting those with the highest rates. Local authorities must meet specific criteria to receive this funding. The National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training offers guidance for delivering effective stop smoking services.

Half of e-cigarette vendors are not complying with strict regulations introduced by Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke in 2023 to restrict flashy designs and slogans. Violations, especially in Brussels, were found in 80% of cases, with two-thirds related to vape composition. MP Els Van Hoof is pushing for legislation to ban flavors that mask health hazards. Harsher penalties are being considered, including closing non-compliant businesses if violations persist.

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ criticizes the Government's use of vaping starter kits for smoking cessation, calling it irresponsible. Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello plans to provide vaping kits through Stop Smoking Services, aiming to help smokers quit. Despite vaping's role in reducing smoking rates, concerns over long-term effects and lack of consultation with experts are raised. The Foundation stresses the importance of a clear exit strategy from nicotine addiction. Costello defends the initiative as part of efforts to achieve Smokefree 2025 goals by targeting the right audience with effective tools. Collaboration across the health sector is key to encouraging referrals to stop smoking services.

In this insightful interview, Bryan Steenkamp, a dedicated Social Media Executive and Content Creator, sits down with Kurt Yeo and Martin Cullip to discuss the vital role of harm reduction in smoking cessation. Bryan, a former smoker turned advocate, draws from his experience in the vaping industry to relay medical and harm reduction research, helping thousands quit smoking and pursue healthier lives.

Community members enjoy exclusive offers and ads, while a doctor warns vapers about high nicotine levels in pods. Dr. Karan Rajan cautions that vaping may not aid in quitting smoking as commonly believed, with each pod potentially equaling a pack of cigarettes in nicotine content. He also highlights the allure of flavors that may attract young non-smokers. Vaping's quit-smoking success rate is low, and UK plans are in place to ban disposable vapes soon. While vaping is advised for adult smokers trying to quit, it is harmful for youth due to their vulnerability. The NHS emphasizes vaping's risks and the need for age restrictions on vaping products.