Stories

Researchers tested the iSENZIA™ heated herbal system as a potential safer alternative for smokers, delivering nicotine with fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes. The study found that the system produced aerosols with significantly lower levels of harmful compounds compared to cigarette smoke, supporting reduced exposure and potential harm reduction. Clinical findings showed lower nicotine delivery and satisfaction compared to cigarettes, suggesting lower abuse liability. However, long-term health impact and switching effectiveness require further study. Study limitations include a small sample size and lack of long-term outcomes.

FDA Commissioner Makary emphasized stakeholder consensus and evidence-based decisions on policy issues in a podcast, raising concerns about a "child vaping epidemic" but overlooking adult smokers' needs. Makary should prioritize alternatives for adult smokers, as evidence supports e-cigarettes as a less harmful option than combustible cigarettes. Emphasizing public education to correct misconceptions and authorizing a broader range of appealing alternatives could lead to better health outcomes. Restrictive measures, such as flavor bans, risk driving consumers to the unregulated market and increasing tobacco sales. To improve public health, FDA policies should align with evidence-based approaches and address adult smokers' needs to reduce illicit products and promote safer choices.

The ban on disposable vapes failed as manufacturers replaced them with reusable replicas, still leading to disposal. Despite the ban due to underage vaping, 5.3 million copycat vapes were sold in the first month, but only 1.4 million refills. A survey revealed users buy new devices every 16 days. Environmental concerns were raised, with many discarding vapes instead of refilling. Scott Butler warned of a potential environmental crisis. Tory MP Jack Rankin criticized the ban, suggesting it hindered adult smoking cessation efforts.

Starting September 1, popular items like nicotine pouches will be banned in Southborough, Massachusetts, affecting stores like 7-Eleven, with fines for violators increased to $1,000. The decision aims to prevent sales appealing to children due to flavored varieties. Despite protests from industry groups citing FDA approval and low youth usage, officials emphasize the products' risks to teens and difficulty in detection by parents. The unanimous board decision follows concerns over teens turning to pouches after a decline in youth vaping. Adult-only stores are the only remaining option for purchasing these products post-ban.

Last month, behind-the-scenes pressure, not faulty data, led to the quiet removal of inconvenient research findings that contradict the Australia government's narrative.

The law in Malaysia bans the sale of vape-related products online, yet they remain widely available through Internet search engines.

The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids applauds Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko's announcement that the country will raise taxes on tobacco products to save lives and stimulate the economy. Increasing taxes on tobacco products is a smart move, a huge win for public health and a popular policy initiative.

Belgium will require cigars, cigarillos, cigarette papers, filters, tubes, and all other “herbal products intended for smoking” to adopt standardized green-brown packaging with uniform fonts and health warnings, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced. Effective June 1, 2026, the measure expands existing (...)

Panama’s Ministry of Health (MINSA) has announced that new, comprehensive regulations governing the use, sale, and promotion of all e-cigarettes and vaping devices are now in effect. The rules apply to all electronic and non-electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS and ENNDS) and are designed to protect public health, with a strong emphasis on safeguarding children and adolescents from the documented risks of these products.

Comprehensive guide explains that quitting smoking is difficult because nicotine relieves stress, but success is possible with personalised plans, trigger identification and coping strategies. It advises setting a quit date, using nicotine‑replacement products, managing withdrawal and seeking support.