Stories

UK Times explores the new UK smoking ban in today’s video. It details how the law will be implemented, who it will affect, and its potential impacts on various groups.

The study analyzed smoking trends in the US adult population during the e-cigarette era and found discrepancies between observed and expected smoking prevalence, with the latter being lower. These discrepancies were more pronounced in subpopulations with higher e-cigarette use, especially younger adults. The research suggests (...)

A new paper led by Harry Tattan Birch, University College London, has looked into what has happened to trends in adult smoking and vaping prevalence in England since disposable vapes started to become popular. According to Dr Sarah Jackson, the short answer is that it is complicated.

The UK's Labour government has reintroduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, initially proposed by the Conservatives, to prohibit cigarette sales to those born after 2008. Criticized for its impact on harm reduction, the bill also regulates vape products. Critics fear bans on vape flavors and disposable vapes. Advocates argue against restricting vaping, essential for (...)

A recent paper explored the optimal way to define “e-cigarette use” among youth in a manner pertinent to individual and public health. Commonly, definitions of youth vaping are derived from those used for tobacco cigarette smoking. In fact very frequently vaping is even referred to as tobacco use, despite the fact that vapes do not contain tobacco. Moreover, many definitions tend to not be appropriate for vaping products, given the lower risk profile and different usage patterns.

Tobacco harm reduction advocates in Romania criticize the new excise tax on nicotine-free e-liquids and vapes, as it may deter smokers from safer options. Vaping companies, like e-Potion in Sibiu, fear the tax will strain consumers and harm businesses. Despite the need for regulation, e-Potion stresses that public health should not be compromised. The company plans to assist customers and lessen the tax impact. Romania has tightened regulations on smoking alternatives, including banning electronic cigarette ads and flavored heated tobacco products to comply with EU rules by October 2023.

Tobacco harm reduction advocates criticize anti-vaping groups for spreading misinformation, hindering access to safer alternatives, and denying the benefits recognized by consumers. They argue that smokeless technologies can prevent deaths due to the absence of toxic substances found in smoke. Scientific evidence supports vaping as 95% less harmful than smoking. Advocates like David Sweanor challenge organizations like the World Health Organization for dismissing harm reduction potential. Sweanor emphasizes the need for regulating innovative nicotine products without overlooking known risks. Despite opposition, over 120 million worldwide use safer nicotine alternatives, signaling a growing $350 billion market.

The World Health Organization published its first tobacco cessation guide for adults, aiming to assist over 750 million tobacco users. The guideline suggests various strategies such as behavioral support, digital interventions, and pharmacological treatments. Critics argue that the guidance fails to differentiate between products with varying risk levels, like smokeless tobacco and heated tobacco. While the WHO omits e-cigarettes from its recommendations, experts highlight their effectiveness in smoking cessation. The organization's approach has been called into question, overlooking tools with proven success in reducing smoking rates. Despite ongoing smoking-related deaths, alternative harm reduction methods are disregarded in the WHO's strategy.

The UK Government, led by Keir Starmer, plans to implement a generational smoking ban and stricter regulations on vapes and nicotine products. The Tobacco and Vapes bill, part of the King's Speech, aims to raise the legal age for cigarette purchases, control vape sales, and regulate product features. Initially proposed by the Conservatives but delayed, this legislative agenda now pursued by Labour Health Secretary Wes Streeting aligns with public health groups advocating for informed consumer choices. Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty supports the bill, emphasizing the health benefits of a smoke-free nation.

The long-term vaping trend in England has significantly risen since 2021, with one in ten adults reporting vaping for over six months by 2023, especially among young individuals. The increase is associated with the popularity of disposable e-cigarettes. Usage grew among both smokers and non-smokers, with men initially vaping more than women. The shift towards disposable devices raises concerns about the environment. Observational study results suggest regulations are needed to curb youth vaping, without discouraging smokers from using e-cigarettes to quit. Prohibiting disposable vapes might not greatly impact vaping rates, but addressing their appeal through marketing restrictions could promote vaping as a smoking cessation aid.