Stories

The European Commission released a new EU survey on tobacco and nicotine after a debate on tobacco policy. The report showed minimal decrease in smoking rates, with notable successes in some countries like Czechia. The Commission's bias against safer nicotine products, apparent from past reports, is evident. Conflicts between findings and policy preferences were covered up by manipulating data and lack of media coverage. The fight for safer nicotine products is more about politics than data, influencing upcoming tobacco rulebook reviews. The Commission's stance isn't swayed by science but public opinion, highlighting a disconnect between policy-making and factual evidence.

The Supreme Court will review the FDA's refusal to approve flavored e-cigarettes, focusing on teen usage. E-cigarette makers challenge FDA decisions, with one case won by vape companies at the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. The FDA argued concerns over encouraging tobacco use among youth, while companies claim their products aid smoking cessation. Teens' nicotine consumption rises despite FDA decisions. The FDA recently allowed menthol e-cigarettes but previously banned Juul's products. The case will be heard in the upcoming Supreme Court term, starting in October 2024.

Dr. Anthony Salandy spoke at an event in Washington, DC, about reducing smoking-related harm, emphasizing collaboration between harm reduction and smoking cessation efforts. NHRC plans to partner with Global Action to End Smoking for an education campaign. Salandy, with personal experience in tobacco use, advocates for harm reduction approaches, including new smoking cessation tools. Addressing skepticism of industry involvement, he stresses the importance of credible support for harm reduction initiatives. NHRC aims to prioritize smoking cessation within marginalized communities. Collaboration between NHRC and Global Action signifies progress in harmonizing efforts for public health.

A study investigated the link between e-cigarette (ECIG) flavors and nocturnal dry cough among ECIG users, focusing on health risks from flavorings like fruit, menthol, and cinnamon. Data from over 18,900 participants showed fruit-flavored ECIG users had a higher risk of coughing, even when adjusting for confounders. Menthol and multiple flavors also increased this risk. The study emphasizes the respiratory effects of ECIG flavors, supporting previous findings. ECIGs pose health risks, with flavors potentially causing respiratory inflammation and oxidative stress. Fruit flavors were particularly associated with cough among ECIG users, highlighting concerns about respiratory health from vaping.

Australia has implemented stringent vaping laws, requiring a prescription for purchase and limiting nicotine concentration in vape devices. The goal is to combat youth vaping, with a focus on smoking cessation. While praised for its approach, loopholes exist in the law, with restrictions set to ease slightly for adults over 18. Pharmacies are now responsible for vape sales, while illegal sellers face penalties. Enforcement challenges remain, with some stores still selling vape products easily. The new regulations aim to shift access to vapes and combat the rise of recreational vaping, emphasizing a therapeutic purpose.

The WHO's report on commercial determinants of noncommunicable diseases in Europe proposes excluding "health-harming industries" from public dialogue akin to the approach taken with the tobacco industry. Critics argue this approach could hinder public health advancements and partnerships seen in the recent pandemic response. The report dismisses industry efforts, promotes engaging with civil society organizations over industry, and questions the motives behind industry actions. The WHO's push to isolate industry faces internal dissent and scrutiny.

TGA urged to review vapes and produce guidelines to allay pharmacists’ concerns about stocking products  The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) needs to review the safety, efficacy and performance of vaping products before pharmacists will feel comfortable stocking them, an NSW-based pharmacist says.  Speaking with ABC Illawarra about new vaping legislation, which came into effect today

RJRVC, part of Reynolds American Inc., is launching SENSA, a zero-nicotine vapor product, to expand its vapor portfolio. The product includes safety features like a locking mechanism and provides access to a battery recycling program. With insights from adult vapor consumers, this move aims to meet market demand and compete responsibly in the industry. SENSA's flavors target adult users and adhere to strict marketing practices, including age verification on web platforms.

A study led by UNSW Sydney revealed low usage of prescription quit smoking medicines like NRT among pregnant women, highlighting the need for more support to help them quit successfully. While counseling is recommended first, medicines like NRT are considered effective for quitting in the general population. Varenicline and bupropion are not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety evidence. The study stresses the importance of better information for pregnant women and clinicians to make informed decisions about smoking cessation. More research is necessary to evaluate the safety of varenicline and bupropion for pregnant women.

Vaping product registry bills are on the rise in the U.S. due to concerns about illegal vaping products. Critics argue these bills benefit big tobacco companies. The PMTA process for vaping products is viewed as overly burdensome compared to cigarettes. Only a few e-cigarettes have FDA authorization, favoring large manufacturers. The industry debate focuses on health risks and market competition. Some states have passed registry bills, with more to come by 2025. Proponents argue the bills protect consumers, while opponents fear they benefit tobacco giants. Enforcement challenges and industry resistance complicate the implementation of these regulations.