Stories

A survey reveals that most under-18s obtain vapes through the black market, undermining restrictions. Despite bans, 74% feel stores allow underage purchases easily. Peer pressure drives 61% of youth to vape, and illegal sales soar due to cheaper prices and lack of age checks. Prohibition policies worldwide fail to curb demand, leading to a surge in illicit vape trade. Collaborative efforts are recommended for stricter age verification at point of sale and use, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle youth vaping effectively while avoiding the pitfalls of prohibition.

Changes to warning labels for tobacco, nicotine, and alcohol are under review by David Seymour's Ministry for Regulation. Public health groups expressed concerns, but Seymour indicated no plans to exclude these products. He mentioned the potential for altering label designs, citing an example of the color red used for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder warnings. Seymour acknowledged cost implications for businesses complying with label requirements. Health advocates stressed the importance of existing warning labels, especially for tobacco and nicotine products. The Ministry is gathering industry feedback through surveys. Concerns were raised about potentially reducing the effectiveness of warning labels on harmful products.

New research suggests that higher levels of THC in marijuana may harm unfertilized eggs, potentially leading to infertility, miscarriage, and genetic defects in babies. A cautious approach to cannabis use when planning to conceive is advised. Studies show a rise in marijuana use during pregnancy, linked to negative outcomes like poor fetal development. The study highlights the impact of THC on egg maturation and chromosome formation but further research is needed. The increasing potency of THC poses risks, as consumers may not be aware of the levels in products. Experts recommend considering safer alternatives to manage symptoms.

Smoking remains a global public health crisis, leading to millions of preventable deaths annually. Despite the clear risks, countries often resist harm reduction strategies, but some doctors advocate for evidence-based approaches. In India, vaping products are banned, yet high smoking rates persist. In the U.S., many clinicians lack information on harm reduction, hindering progress. Europe also faces challenges with illegal vape sales to youth. Prohibition fuels black markets and misinformation, impacting public health. Doctors worldwide call for education, regulation, and safer alternatives to combat smoking effectively and shift from managing to preventing the tragic consequences of smoking.

According to Reuters, the FDA is preparing to accelerate the review of applications for the sale of nicotine pouches. These products are considered far less harmful than traditional cigarettes, as they contain no tobacco, require no combustion, and do not involve inhalation. [...] The FDA is being criticized for taking “shortcuts” in reviewing nicotine pouch applications, but the reality is that reviews often take years instead of the 180 days required by law — Zyn, for example, took five years. Speeding up this process is not a threat to kids’ health but a necessary step to bring safer alternatives to smokers more quickly. Meanwhile, groups like the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids remain silent on the FDA’s continued approval of deadly cigarettes, never calling for their removal or even stricter safety standards.

New York City faces a high rate of cigarette tax evasion due to exorbitant prices, leading to a thriving illicit market. The study found a decline in packs with official tax stamps, leading to concerns about the impact of high tobacco taxes on smokers. While smoking rates have decreased, experts debate whether it's due to taxes or the rise of safer nicotine products like vapes. Strategies to combat the illegal cigarette trade, including a track-and-trace system, are discussed. However, punitive measures like those on flavored vapes might drive consumers back to more harmful options, highlighting the need for harm reduction approaches.

Adults in the U.S. are turning to nicotine pouches as a potential step down from more harmful nicotine products. A study by Rutgers Health found that most users have a history of tobacco use, with some using pouches to quit. Despite low overall usage rates, concerns about the long-term health effects, addiction, and youth uptake persist. Researchers emphasize the need for monitoring and regulation to prevent uncontrolled proliferation. While potentially beneficial for established tobacco users seeking harm reduction, caution is advised for non-users. Understanding usage patterns is crucial as these products gain popularity. The study provides valuable insights into current trends around nicotine pouch use.

Policymakers and health officials convening in Dublin overlook consumer perspectives on tobacco regulation, focusing on prohibitive measures influenced by powerful stakeholders. This ignores evidence supporting harm reduction strategies and excludes those benefiting from safer alternatives in countries like Sweden and the UK. Proposed EU regulations, aligning with the WHO's strict abstinence model, risk hindering public health by restricting access to less harmful nicotine products. Amidst global policy debates, it is crucial for decision-makers to prioritize evidence-based approaches and engage with consumer voices to ensure effective and inclusive tobacco control strategies at COP11 and beyond.

France will ban nicotine sachets, balls, and gum due to toxicity concerns and addiction risks, effective from March 2026. The ban follows the prohibition of disposable e-cigarettes and aims to protect young people from nicotine-related dangers. The government's decision has been praised by anti-tobacco associations as a crucial measure. Critics argue the ban may deprive adult smokers of regulated alternatives and fuel illegal drug trafficking. Nicotine pouches are said to cause poisonings, especially among children and adolescents, leading to severe health issues. The move reflects a shift in tobacco regulation to tackle addiction and public health concerns.

Last week marked the launch of Prohibition Does Not Work, an international coalition backed by think tanks and aimed at promoting evidence-based harm reduction policies over prohibitionist approaches. The group argues that prohibition has failed, fueling crime, black markets, and public health risks, while blocking access to safer alternatives. Partners such as the Tholos Foundation and the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance stress that governments should follow the science, adopt harm reduction strategies, and curb the unintended consequences of restrictive tobacco and nicotine laws.