Stories

The article criticizes the World Health Organization’s upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, describing it as a secretive and extreme anti-smoking event. It claims that government-funded “anti-nicotine zealots” meet to create harsh tobacco control measures. Among the proposed ideas are bans on cigarette filters and smoking in private homes, which the author calls excessive and unreasonable forms of prohibition.

The passage argues that the best way to achieve the goals of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is to make nicotine use safer by shifting from smoking to low-risk, smoke-free nicotine products. Despite years of tobacco control, over a billion people still use nicotine, and millions die annually from smoking. Since nicotine use is likely to continue, the focus should be on reducing smoking through tobacco harm reduction — encouraging the use of safer alternatives rather than trying to eliminate nicotine entirely.

Scotland's smoking rates have plateaued, raising concerns about NHS cessation service funding transparency. While 14% of Scots still smoke, funding for cessation services has decreased. ASH Scotland urges the government to reveal spending details to drive progress in achieving a tobacco-free Scotland by 2034. Quit attempts with NHS support slightly increased, but most boards miss cessation targets. Efforts include promoting services in deprived areas, where smoking rates are highest. The Public Health Minister emphasizes the benefits of quitting and urges people to utilize free support. Collaboration with NHS and pharmacists aims to aid smokers in achieving a tobacco-free Scotland by 2034.

The article criticizes British Columbia’s new Bill 24, introduced by Attorney General Niki Sharma, which allows the government to fine and sue vaping vendors for health damages. The author argues that vaping is not a public health problem but rather a solution to smoking-related harm. They claim the bill will only stigmatize vaping and push the industry underground. The writer believes laws should focus on protecting children from nicotine addiction while allowing adults to make their own choices.

The text highlights the deceptive marketing tactics of vaping companies, particularly targeting children with appealing flavors. Vaping is shown to be harmful, with high nicotine levels and toxic chemicals inhaled, leading to addiction and health issues. Parents are urged to recognize the dangers and take action, while the government is called upon to implement stricter regulations on marketing, flavors, and misinformation about vaping. It is emphasized that prevention programs in schools are crucial to educate teenagers on the risks of vaping. Urgent measures are needed to address the increasing trend of teenage vaping and promote healthier socialization alternatives.

Cambodia's government has imposed strict measures to ban the import, sale, and use of vapes and shishas to safeguard public health. The prohibition, driven by Prime Minister Hun Manet's order, aims to protect youth from the dangers associated with heated tobacco products. Various ministries have been instructed to enforce the ban, with penalties for violators including warnings, confiscation of devices, and suspension of commercial licenses. Educational institutions are also mandated to educate and prevent the use of such products on their premises. The goal is to curb the potential gateway effect of vaping devices to illicit drug use in the country.

A study showed that vaping during pregnancy in rats led to weight gain, memory loss, behavioral changes, and premature aging in the offspring. Both e-liquid and nicotine impact development, causing health consequences from early development into adulthood. The study, conducted at West Virginia University, found that vaping resulted in cognitive impairment and negative effects on brain health, with e-liquid being a key factor in blood vessel impairment. Nicotine wasn't the sole factor in harm, as vaping without it still resulted in offspring damage. The study suggests that vaping poses similar cardiovascular risks as smoking, highlighting the need for caution, especially during pregnancy.

Juul Labs, tarnished by legal battles, aims for a comeback by focusing on adult smoking cessation with their new device, Juul2. Equipped with biometric safeguards and a companion app, the product targets smokers while restricting access for minors. Despite controversy and financial setbacks, investor James Sagan sees potential in Juul's resurgence. The company, once linked to youth vaping, faces regulatory challenges and mixed scientific opinions on its effectiveness. Embracing independence after Altria's exit, Juul's future hinges on Juul2's success in a competitive market. Sagan remains hopeful about Juul’s mission to address public health issues.

Swedish biotech firm Emplicure AB plans to seek U.S. approval for its quick-delivery nicotine system, Seratek, aiming to offer a more efficient smokeless alternative for adult users. Seratek released 80% of nicotine in five minutes, outperforming competitors in a recent study. Emplicure aims to file a PMTA for U.S. sales, with CEO Mattias Josander highlighting nicotine pouches as a potential public health breakthrough.

The UK has significantly reduced smoking rates by promoting vaping and safer nicotine alternatives, leading to a 166,000 decrease in premature deaths. This strategy has lowered smoking rates and improved health outcomes, with cardiovascular mortality down and fewer smoking-related hospital admissions. These results showcase the success of tobacco harm reduction. However, challenges such as potential restrictions on vaping products could slow progress. Countries like Sweden, Japan, and New Zealand have also seen success with harm reduction strategies. To continue this positive trend, it's crucial for the UK to defend the role of vaping and reduced-risk products. Global leadership in this area must be protected to benefit millions more.