Stories

The spread of misinformation about vaping risks is described as a major public health disaster, fueled by myths like “popcorn lung,” the EVALI scare, and the misconception that nicotine causes cancer. Instead of correcting false beliefs, public health figures are accused of reinforcing them. The UK government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which allows vapes to be regulated like cigarettes, is seen as worsening the problem by suggesting their risks are similar. Critics argue that some public health academics and activists undermine vaping despite acknowledging its benefits.

A two-day blitz on Chapel Street retailers by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Victoria Police resulted in the seizure of over $40,000 worth of illegal vaping products and more than 24,000 nicotine pouches. Police also confiscated 110,000 illicit cigarettes, 40 kg of loose tobacco, and cash. The crackdown, part of the National Vaping Enforcement Framework, aims to combat the illegal supply of vaping goods and disrupt organised crime. The TGA emphasised the importance of protecting young people’s health, while Victoria Police highlighted that illicit tobacco profits often fund violent crimes such as arson, firearms use, and extortion.

Last week, officials raided an illegal vape operation near Chicago, seizing 600,000 units. Most vapes on the market are illicit, mainly smuggled from China. FDA regulations on vaping products are stringent, leading to a lack of safe alternatives and favoring cigarettes. The FDA should reform its approval process, focusing on monitoring markets and providing clear safety standards. This approach, as seen in the European Union and the UK, can streamline the process and educate consumers accurately. By prioritizing harm reduction over strict regulations, the FDA can support safer smoking alternatives and combat the illicit market.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global leading cause of death. The longevity dividend has brought a "prevention debt." Hypertension is a key risk factor, with low control rates. Obesity, diabetes, and environmental factors like climate change, air pollution, and noise further increase CVD risks. Europe is implementing policies, such as the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan and clean air initiatives, to combat rising CVD rates. Tobacco and new nicotine products pose risks, with the EU taking steps towards regulation. Nutrition and lifestyle changes are crucial for prevention. Measures like the UK's soft drinks tax show promise. Overall, coordinated efforts are vital for tackling CVD effectively.

In this interview, tobacco harm reduction advocate Nancy Loucas unpacks how consumer voices are pushing back against vaping misinformation in New Zealand, why education matters in a “post-truth” world, and how Asia-Pacific communities win by doing it “their way".

UKVIA Director General John Dunne warned that putting vapes in plain, cigarette-style packaging could drive ex-smokers back to cigarettes. He argued that while studies claim plain packaging reduces youth appeal, it risks reinforcing myths that vaping is as harmful as smoking. Dunne stressed that vaping is far less risky and the most effective way to quit smoking. He also pointed to evidence from the UK, Canada, and the US showing plain packaging reduces adult appeal and can increase smoking rates. Citing that 14% of former smokers have already returned to cigarettes after the disposable vape ban, he cautioned against further restrictive laws.

Michael, a 32-year-old construction worker from Saint John, struggled with smoking until finding success with nicotine pouches. Despite their effectiveness, Canadian regulations restricting access to them caused inconvenience and hindered efforts to quit smoking. Michael argues that limiting safer alternatives like pouches disproportionately affects working-class individuals and perpetuates addiction rather than promoting public health. He highlights the importance of supporting harm reduction strategies in reducing smoking-related health issues. Michael calls on MPs to overturn the ban on nicotine pouches, emphasizing the need for sensible health policies that prioritize people's well-being over moral judgments.

The Finance Minister of Indonesia announced strict measures against illegal cigarette sales impacting state revenue, targeting smugglers and sellers. Random checks will target travelers, e-commerce platforms, and suppliers. Customs and excise authorities are monitoring tobacco products to prevent underpriced sales. Raids in several regions have seized millions of illegal cigarettes. With excise rates at 57%, efforts aim to address the issue of illegal cigarettes. Minimizing excise losses and deterring the illicit cigarette trade are top priorities for the government.

Approximately 34 million U.S. adults smoke cigarettes, resulting in over 480,000 deaths yearly. Vaping, seen as a safer alternative for smokers, has gained popularity among teens. Balancing the need to deter youth vaping while allowing adult smokers access was discussed in a panel by the Petrie-Flom Center and others. Policies have shown some success in reducing youth e-cigarette use, but may increase adult tobacco use. E-cigarettes, with fewer harmful chemicals, are considered effective for smoking cessation. Regulatory gaps and weak FDA authority have hindered efforts to control e-cigarette sales, with financial penalties limited. Stricter age restrictions and penalties could help enforce regulations and prevent a shift from e-cigarettes to traditional cigarettes.

The global goal to cut non-communicable diseases by one-third by 2030 is being undermined by tobacco control ideologues. Activists, officials, and academics are shifting the focus from smoking-related harm to nicotine itself, aiming for nicotine eradication and framing the tobacco and nicotine industries as inherently harmful. This ideological approach to nicotine, the author argues, hinders progress in reducing smoking-related diseases.