Stories

On June 21, 2024, the FDA approved the first non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes in the U.S. This includes two sealed prefilled pods with menthol liquid and two disposable menthol e-cigarettes. The decision is significant as it marks the first time a non-tobacco e-cigarette flavor has been authorized. Menthol has historically been used in traditional cigarettes to appeal to consumers, particularly Black individuals. E-cigarettes, which can contain nicotine, offer a potentially less harmful alternative to smoking. The FDA carefully evaluates e-cigarette products to ensure they benefit public health. Despite the risks, switching from smoking to vaping can have health benefits. Illicit e-cigarettes and harmful chemicals are a concern, but authorized products are safer.

The World Vapers' Alliance opposes EU Health Ministers' support for a flavour ban on safer nicotine products like vaping and pouches. The ban disregards scientific evidence and public opinion, risking lives and promoting black market trade. The Alliance emphasizes the importance of flavors in aiding smoking cessation. They urge policymakers to prioritize harm reduction based on scientific research and public support. The EU Health Ministers' move bypasses democratic processes and neglects the voices of 54,000 citizens who oppose the ban. The organization calls for rejecting the proposal and focusing on evidence-based policies to protect public health and reduce smoking rates.

Haleon will sell its nicotine replacement therapy business outside the U.S. to a unit of India's Dr. Reddy's for 500 million pounds ($632.55 million), the British consumer healthcare company said on Wednesday.The divestment is expected to dilute Haleon's 2024 net revenue and adjusted operating profit by about 0.5% and about 1%, respectively. The company kept the rest of the forecast unchanged.The business, which includes the Nicotinell brand of nicotine gum, lozenges and patches, generated revenue of 217 million pounds last year.

A recent study shows that if vapes were banned or more expensive, more young people might turn to smoking. Even though vaping is less harmful than smoking, many youths see them as interchangeable. There is a misconception about the dangers of vaping versus smoking. Researchers found that enforcing age restrictions and regulating packaging and marketing could help decrease youth vaping. However, there are concerns that strict regulations may lead to increased use of illegal vapes and tobacco among young people. The study, involving 29 youths aged 16-20, emphasizes the need for balanced interventions to address vaping trends.

Nicotine pouches like ZYN are gaining popularity as a smoking alternative but raise health concerns. They contain nicotine and harmful chemicals, potentially increasing cancer risks and cardiovascular issues. Oral effects include gum irritation, dry mouth, and tooth decay. While not risk-free, they are promoted for quitting smoking. Dental and medical experts call for further research on their long-term impact. Regular dental check-ups are advised for users. No tobacco product, including vaping, is considered safe due to nicotine addiction risks. Prioritize oral health and hygiene while using nicotine pouches.

The Global report on alcohol and health and substance use disorders outlines alcohol consumption, harm, policies, and treatment worldwide based on WHO data. Aligned with SDG health target 3.5, it focuses on preventing substance abuse and enhancing treatment capacities. The report emphasizes trends in alcohol consumption, disease burden, and global policy responses. It also assesses treatment components and proposes a service capacity index as an indicator for monitoring progress. Recommendations for international efforts to advance SDG health target 3.5 are provided for accelerating progress.

New regulations in the Philippines mandate all vaping products to be registered with the Department of Trade and Industry. These laws aim to provide safer alternatives to smoking, with around 1.6 million vapers in the country. However, concerns arise regarding potential restrictions on access and increased taxation, potentially leading vapers back to smoking. Advocates, like Clarisse Virgino and Anton Israel, acknowledge the benefits of regulation but worry about enforcement and affordability. While the Philippines leads in vape regulation in Asia, uncertainties remain about the future accessibility and choice for consumers.

A smoke shop in Tennessee introduced a new disposable nicotine vape with an LCD display and Bluetooth connectivity named RAMA. This vape, resembling an early 2000s cell phone, allows customization, puff tracking, and location monitoring. The sophisticated disposable vape trend, including smart vapes, has grown in the US, originating from China and surpassing legal boundaries. The US-China vape market accounts for a large share due to innovative and potent products. As competition escalated, Chinese manufacturers focused on design, affordability, and increased nicotine levels. Concerns arise over the environmental impact and appeal of these vapes to youth, sparking regulatory worries.

Whilst no activity has a total absence of risk, science has to embrace risks and challenges to evolve. The over/misinterpretation of the precautionary principle is often an impediment to progress. Drawing on his experience of working with dependence in other fields, Dr McGovern will examine, in relation to nicotine use: [...]

A recent European Commission survey predicts that the EU will not achieve its 5% smoking rate target by 2030, now aiming for 2100. The survey shows vaping and heated tobacco products are effective in reducing smoking rates, with over half of users quitting or reducing tobacco intake. Some member states propose stricter vaping regulations, and over half of EU citizens support flavor bans. Only 3% vape, 4% tried pouches, while 24% still smoke. The World Vapers Alliance criticizes the EU for focusing on harm reduction products, urging a shift in public health strategies to combat smoking effectively.