Stories

A former WHO director criticizes the agency for neglecting science on tobacco harm reduction, impacting efforts to reduce smoking in the Asia-Pacific. Despite evidence supporting safer alternatives, WHO maintains an anti-harm reduction stance, citing vape and heated tobacco products as harmful. With the Asia-Pacific region having a high smoking rate, advocates push for evidence-driven coalitions to promote harm reduction. Ahead of COP11, calls intensify for WHO to prioritize harm reduction to aid smokers switching from cigarettes. The focus is on the need for factual communication, proportional regulation, and acknowledging vaping's role in reducing harm and helping smokers quit.

Maria Papaioannoy-Duic, founder and spokesperson of Rights for Vapers, speaks with Joanna Junak about the challenges Canadian vapers face in being heard in public health debates. Maria shares how her organization has worked tirelessly to educate consumers on safer nicotine alternatives, fight misinformation, and give a voice to those seeking harm reduction over prohibition.

MP Teresa Kok questioned why there is no tax on vape products in Budget 2026 when taxes on tobacco have increased. She highlighted the growing vape industry in Malaysia and the need for regulations rather than a total ban to avoid black market activity. Kok suggested only allowing 'closed system' vapes for sale, controlled by registered companies. She emphasized that a total ban would not deter vape use but could lead to smuggling. Strict controls were recommended before considering a ban to safeguard industry operators and tax revenue. - In summary, MP Teresa Kok raised concerns about the absence of a vape tax in Budget 2026, advocating for regulation over prohibition to manage the industry effectively.

Tobacco consumption in Southeast Asia has declined significantly over the past two decades, aided by strong policies and public health initiatives. Despite this progress, the tobacco industry still holds significant power, and the use of e-cigarettes is on the rise. While most countries have implemented anti-smoking measures, Indonesia remains an exception with high smoking rates and minimal regulation. Additionally, the region faces challenges in tackling the growing popularity of e-cigarettes, particularly among youth. Governments are advised to continue enforcing strict tobacco control measures to prevent a resurgence in smoking rates and address the emerging issue of vaping.

Extending THR into other disciplines and communities, is essential. Obvious targets are in the fields of drug use and mental health - evidence is clear concerning levels of smoking and associated health risks - but there is need to engage more widely. The panel addressed the barriers to extending reach, including how can we dispel myths and tackle miscommunication? What role does the media have in the process? Who are the key opinion leaders and groups, what are the initial steps in reaching out and how can we support ongoing dialogue?

The study examined Palestinian perceptions of e-cigarette use, finding 19.4% usage with more males than females. Peer influence plays a key role, while e-cigarettes are more prevalent among 26-35 age group and city residents. Knowledge level affected usage, with discrepancies on safety perception and effectiveness for smoking cessation. Concerns were raised about addiction and health impact, suggesting the need for regulation. Socioeconomic factors and lifestyle behaviors were not fully explored. The study had limitations, including sampling bias and not considering confounding factors. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between e-cigarette use, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle behaviors.

Albertan groups are urging federal health ministers to ban all flavored e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches in Canada to deter youth vaping. Despite promises since 2021, the government has not implemented the ban. Concerns are raised about the popularity of vaping among students, prompting advocacy groups like SAAVE and Action on Smoking and Health to seek direct discussions with ministers at the upcoming meeting in Calgary. The focus is on protecting young Canadians from the allure of flavored vaping products.

The FDA initiated a pilot program to speed up the approval of nicotine pouches. The move is welcomed by advocates who criticize the agency's slow approval process that favored traditional cigarettes over safer alternatives like e-cigarettes. Legacy tobacco firms have benefited from exemptions that hinder newcomers. The flawed process led to the dominance of Big Tobacco in the e-cigarette market, causing harm to smaller companies like Juul. Expanding the program to include e-cigarettes is crucial to provide smokers with safer options and combat the illicit market. The accelerated pathway is a step towards rectifying regulatory failures and improving public health.

The European Commission will release an evaluation report on the EU's Tobacco Control policy, focusing on the Tobacco Products Directive from 2016, regulating vaping and heated tobacco. The Tobacco Advertising Directive will also be part of the review. Commissioner Oliver Varheyli, criticized for misinformation about safer nicotine products, oversees the evaluation despite controversy. The report initiates the process to amend EU tobacco rules, leading to new proposals and consultations by 2027. EU countries and the European Parliament will need to agree on any changes, following disagreements such as rejecting a public vaping ban.

Denver small businesses oppose billionaire funding to maintain a flavored tobacco ban. Referendum 310 gives voters the chance to decide on flavored vape sales to adults, protecting local revenue and businesses. On the other hand, supporters of the ban argue for health reasons due to nicotine's addictiveness. Meanwhile, Lakewood faces zoning conflicts over residential density changes. Proponents seek affordability and vibrancy, while others fear losing open space and trees. The impact on infrastructure and existing homeowners is a concern. The decision could shape the city's future.