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Dr. Colin Mendelsohn, a renowned expert in smoking cessation, received the prestigious Michael Russell Award in 2024 for his groundbreaking contributions to safer nicotine products and tobacco harm reduction. Despite facing opposition in Australia, Mendelsohn advocates for vaping as a tool for quitting smoking. His efforts include engaging with policymakers, providing scientific evidence, and producing educational materials. Mendelsohn's dedication to harm reduction and advocacy for vaping have led to international recognition, despite facing criticism at home. His book, "Stop Smoking, Start Vaping," is available for free to promote vaping's health benefits. Mendelsohn's unwavering commitment to harm reduction has earned him the well-deserved Michael Russell Award.

Teachers nationwide are now empowered to confiscate e-cigarettes in schools, as authorized by the Education and Commerce Ministries. This measure aims to address the worrying trend of students using e-cigarettes, which can harm their health and development. Despite efforts by Obec and police, the issue persists due to limitations on seizing items without police intervention. The proactive initiative allows educators to enforce anti-smoking laws, protecting students from the risks of vaping. This move follows Bangkok's initiative to make schools e-cigarette-free, enabling thorough bag checks and education on vaping dangers.

Scientists warn against a potential increase in youth smoking if e-cigarettes are banned due to the misconception that vaping is as harmful as smoking. The ban's unintended consequences could lead to young individuals turning to tobacco instead. With reduced public health messaging on smoking dangers and sensationalized vaping harms, many youths lack awareness of smoking risks. While vaping can aid smoking cessation, education campaigns are crucial to differentiate between vaping and smoking risks. Clarifying the relative harm levels and promoting vaping as a cessation tool can prevent non-smokers from developing nicotine addiction. Addressing misinformation and advocating for informed decisions on vaping and smoking are essential for public health.

The prevalence of tobacco use in South Africa remains a leading cause of preventable deaths, the global adult tobacco survey (Gats) 2021 has found. The implementation of Gats in 2021 became South Africa’s first attempt to collect detailed data about tobacco use in the adult population. Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable deaths, morbidity and impoverishment globally and in South Africa.System could not access the page, the text article must be completed manually

Switzerland's House of Representatives voted to ban disposable e-cigarettes due to environmental and health concerns. Christophe Clivaz from the Greens pushed for the ban, citing pollution and addiction risks. The motion aims to prevent the sale of 'puff bars,' popular among youths for their flavors and colors. The government would amend the law to enforce the ban, despite opposition from Interior Minister Baume-Schneider. The Federal Council considers the ban premature, and now, the Senate will decide. The motion addresses the millions of disposed units that harm the environment and pose health risks.

American youth face a nicotine addiction crisis, with illegal e-cigarettes targeting children. Politicians criticized the FDA and DOJ for failing to regulate tobacco products, enabling e-cigarette companies to addict millions. A bipartisan hearing highlighted frustration over illegal vapes enticing teens with appealing flavors. The FDA's backlog of 27 million product applications led to minimal approvals. A new task force aims to combat the illegal e-cigarette market. Notably, the FDA lifted Juul Labs' marketing ban, leading to scrutiny on its re-entry. Chinese vape companies profit billions, exploiting regulatory gaps. Lawmakers intend to address these issues with upcoming legislation.

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In practice, FDA's regulation of the US vape market amounts to not regulating at all. I offer a diagnosis and twelve remedies. The 23 vape products authorised by the FDA for legal sale in the United States account for around one per cent of the total market in the financial year 2023, depending on estimates of the size of the untracked market and other forms of illicit trade.

Professional soccer players in the UK are increasingly using snus or nicotine pouches, with a study commissioned by the Professional Footballers’ Association revealing 18% of men and 22% of women players use them. Media coverage often focuses on the negatives, but these products can aid harm reduction. Players use them for relaxation, stress management, and focus improvement. While some may experience nicotine dependence, the potential risks are low compared to other nicotine products. Noteworthy is the positive impact of snus in reducing smoking rates in countries like Sweden. Snus can provide a safer alternative, especially in sports, without significant health risks.

Warning against vaping marijuana, Dr. Su Yi-feng highlighted the risks of severe pneumonia and death due to hazardous vapor substances. Recent incidents, including a Hong Kong gamer's prison sentence for trafficking marijuana vapes, have raised concern. Vapes often contain THC and CBD extracted from marijuana, attracting young users despite health dangers. The US has seen cases of severe pneumonia and deaths linked to cannabis vaping. Harmful additives like tocopherol acetate can be fatal. The New York State Department of Health found high tocopherol acetate levels in marijuana e-cigarette products linked to lung injuries. Dr. Su emphasized the dangers, especially for youth with developing brains.