Stories

The French Health Minister supported extending smoking bans to outdoor areas like hospital surroundings and restaurant terraces, approved by EU Member States except for Germany and Greece. A proposal to ban smoking in various outdoor spaces was passed, but a vote on banning e-cigarettes did not pass due to differences with traditional tobacco views. The European Commission recommended banning emerging products like e-cigarettes citing health risks and WHO warnings. The EU aims for a smoke-free generation by 2040, with some disagreeing on banning smoking in cafe and restaurant terraces but supporting smoke-free areas near schools and care centers.

Vietnam will ban vaping in 2020 to prevent addiction, especially among teenagers. The decision, supported by Parliament, rejects claims that e-cigarettes help quit smoking or are less harmful. Following Thailand and Singapore's crackdown on e-cigarettes, Vietnam aims to curb the appeal of various colored and flavored products to potential users.

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Harm Reduction Advocates urges Mongolia to reconsider its approach to tobacco harm reduction based on Japan's success with heated tobacco products. Switching 50% of smokers to HTPs could save 12 million patient cases and JPY 454 billion. New Zealand's regulation of safer nicotine products led to reduced smoking rates. Mongolia's low cigarette tax, high smoking rates, and diseases highlight the need for harm reduction strategies. E-cigarettes face misinformation in the country. CAPHRA advises Mongolia to revise regulations, differentiate between products, and engage with experts for evidence-based policies to improve public health.

Smoking rates in Spain hit a record low of 25.84% in 2024, down from 33.1% in 2022. This decline is attributed to government efforts like higher tobacco taxes, strict advertising rules, smoke-free zones, and support for quitting. Despite progress, smoking causes around 50,000 deaths each year in Spain. Vaping's popularity is rising, with e-cigarette users doubling in four years, but the government plans to regulate them with restrictions on flavors, indoor use, and possible taxes to align with tobacco laws.

The vaping legislation debate highlighted misconceptions about regulation, vaping as a gateway to smoking, and lack of understanding among MPs. Despite existing regulations like the UK Tobacco and Related Products Regulations, flaws in the bill were overlooked. New MPs faced challenges navigating parliamentary procedures, while misguided criticisms and concerns over vaping flavors were raised. The voting outcome favored the bill, impacting public health and individual freedoms. The lack of evidence-based policymaking was evident, met with laughter from MPs. The debate reflected a need for informed decision-making and consideration of harm reduction benefits of vaping.

Kevin Molloy, our beloved colleague who ran the Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholarship Programme from 2018 until he passed away in 2021, helped shape and mentor a new generation of tobacco harm reduction practitioners. Joining us today are Jeffrey Zamora, a film maker and THRSP Scholar, as well as Kevin's wife Anne Molloy, and Jon Derricott, Kevin's long-standing friend, to highlight Jeffrey's new film "Love Kevin".

A new study focused on the impact of vaping on non-smokers found minimal respiratory symptoms among participants who vape but do not smoke. Published in Scientific Reports, the research challenges previous assumptions linking vaping to smoking-related harms. Led by CoEHAR researchers at the University of Catania, Italy, the study involved a diverse group of adults across six regions. Despite a slight increase in respiratory symptoms among vapers, the difference was not clinically significant. The study underscores the importance of balanced discussions on vaping's risks and benefits, advocating for further research to inform policies.

Integrating tobacco harm reduction (THR) products in Nigeria and Kenya could save 600,000 lives by 2060, cutting tobacco-related deaths. THR offers less harmful smoke-free nicotine alternatives like e-cigarettes, proven effective in other countries. Despite government approval, their use remains low. Strict regulations on THR products may hinder quitting efforts. Urgent collaboration among governments, healthcare providers, and leaders is needed to make THR products accessible. The research aims to guide policymakers on implementing enhanced cessation programs for a healthier, smoke-free future. Understanding smoking dynamics in Nigeria and Kenya is crucial for successful interventions.

The Group of Ministers proposed raising the tax on aerated drinks, cigarettes, and tobacco to 35% from the current 28% under the GST. The decision aims at revising tax rates for 148 items, impacting prices while aiming to increase revenue. Recommendations will be reviewed by the GST Council, impacting companies like ITC and Varun Beverages. The GoM also suggested changes for ready-made garments, luxury items, and health insurance premiums, aligning tax rates with product prices. Prior recommendations in October included lowering tax rates for packaged drinking water and bicycles, while raising them for expensive shoes and watches. The GST Council will discuss these proposals on December 21.

New data shows a rise in young adult vapers in New Zealand, with Māori leading usage. Vaping accessibility increased since 2018, impacting youth trends. Changes in legislation aim to restrict access and address harms. Despite decreasing smoking rates, vaping among ages 15-24 has doubled, posing concerns about misinformation targeting youth. During lockdown, a vaping company's giveaway raised age verification issues. Rangatahi often access vapes through older individuals or retailers, emphasizing the need to involve youth in policy discussions. Engagement with young voices is crucial to address vaping challenges in communities.