Stories

A study led by Stephen T. Higgins, PhD, found that using fruity and sweet e-cigarette flavors with very low nicotine cigarettes helps reduce smoking in high-risk adults. Researchers conducted three trials with 326 participants over 16 weeks from 2020 to 2023. Participants using preferred flavored e-cigarettes smoked fewer cigarettes, with mango being a top choice. The study highlights the potential of a well-regulated marketplace to balance adult access to flavored e-cigarettes while preventing youth access. Limitations include a smaller sample size due to COVID-19 and a short study duration.

Teenagers and young adults in Canada are still developing nicotine habits, with high rates of vaping among young adults and youth. The recreational use of synthetic oral nicotine pouches is also popular among this demographic. Health Canada is introducing regulations to control these products. Led by Nicolle Domnik, a group at Queen's University is studying the impact of vaping and nicotine pouches on cardiovascular and autonomic functions. This unique study focuses on the effects of nicotine on heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep, a new approach compared to other studies on the acute impacts of vaping.

Leading health experts have criticized Canada's new laws restricting nicotine pouch sales as a "deadly error" hindering tobacco harm reduction efforts globally. Nicotine pouches, safer than cigarettes, have aided Sweden's path to becoming smoke-free. Canada's ban on pouches is seen as counterproductive, defying evidence that supports their effectiveness in aiding smokers to quit. Dr. Delon Human advocates for following Sweden's success by making safer alternatives accessible and affordable in Canada. Sweden's progressive policies have significantly reduced smoking rates and tobacco-related deaths. Limiting flavored nicotine products may lead to an increase in smoking, as shown by US data. Canada's new laws are viewed as regressive in public health terms.

New legislation in Australia means that vapes can only be bought in pharmacies, with e-liquid only available in three flavours. What are the likely consequences of this, in a country where the black market for vaping products is already booming?

Rescheduling wouldn’t allow marijuana to be legally added to “food, dietary supplements, tobacco products, or cosmetics,” a federal report confirmed – although hemp-derived CBD might be permitted as a tobacco additive. Hemp “may be incorporated into tobacco products without running afoul of the CSA,” stated a Congressional Research Service report released Monday, adding that products still would need to obtain marketing authorization from the Food and Drug Administration.

Italian lawmakers are investigating the country's taxation and concessions for tobacco and next-gen products. The Chamber of Deputies' finance committee is engaging with tobacconist and vapor industry representatives, recognizing the nicotine sector as a significant player. Sales shifts have prompted adjustments in tax regulations, such as extending duties to noncombustible tobacco products and e-liquids. The committee aims to evaluate compliance with EU rules, combat illicit trade, and address the €1 billion illegal market impacting state revenue. The inquiry must conclude by December 31, 2024.

British American Tobacco introduced Omni™ at its Transformation Forum in London, aiming to promote a Smokeless World using science and innovation. The resource compiles studies on reduced-risk products, Tobacco Harm Reduction, and aims to address industry and societal challenges. Omni™ invites stakeholders to engage in discussions on THR policies towards achieving a smoke-free future. The initiative emphasizes switching smokers to safer alternatives and highlights the potential of reduced-risk products in transitioning to a smoke-free society.

The spread of alternative tobacco products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco aids smokers in quitting traditional smoking, despite misinformation on social media undermining public health efforts. 'Cancel culture' obstructs tobacco harm reduction progress, contested by healthcare experts who advocate for evidence-based strategies. Leading the resistance against misleading campaigns are public health researchers, physicians, and experts who stress the importance of embracing less risky alternatives like e-cigarettes. In India, the ban on e-cigarettes increased their use among youth, revealing the need for education to combat misinformation. Promoting smoke-free alternatives and enhancing awareness can significantly reduce smoking rates, as seen in successful cases like the UK, New Zealand, and Sweden.

The AMA's Tasmanian branch criticized vaping inaccurately, denying its effectiveness in smoking cessation despite strong evidence. Dismissing vaping as a safer alternative and linking it to tobacco companies misleads the public. Claims of vaping causing lung injury and being a gateway to smoking are unfounded. Stricter vaping regulations may fuel illicit trade. GPs' support for vaping varies, leaving many smokers without guidance. The AMA's stance overlooks scientific evidence and harm reduction potential of vaping, hindering public health. Acknowledging vaping's benefits is crucial for reducing smoking harm effectively.

The Georgia House committee investigates the youth vaping epidemic and proposes a statewide vape registry. Law enforcement and school officials express concerns about unregulated vape products, linking them to organized crime and drug trafficking. Despite the focus on nicotine vapor products, THC vapes also raise alarm. Previous attempts to regulate vaping in the state include criminalizing public vaping. Nationwide, states are implementing PMTA registries amid criticism that they benefit tobacco companies. Reports of fentanyl-laced vapes causing harm are debunked. Schools are exploring interventions such as vape detectors and rewards programs to discourage vaping. Georgia considers raising tobacco taxes but remains cautious about vaping.