Nicotine Science and Policy

IN MY INTRODUCTORY SPEECH to the Senate Vaping Inquiry on 2 May 2024, I cover two major concerns about Australia’s vaping policy and comment on the blatant misinformation presented to the Inquiry. Ninety percent of vapers have rejected the legal pathway and only a small number of doctors will prescribe nicotine. Supplies are very hard to access through pharmacies. This has predictably created a thriving and dangerous black market controlled by criminal networks selling high nicotine, unregulated products. This has led to escalating violence as criminal gangs compete over market share.

The UK Vaping Industry Association criticizes the government for excluding experts from the Tobacco and Vape Bill Committee, calling it undemocratic. They express concerns about the potential rise of illicit vape products and propose a licensing scheme. The association supports the Bill's aims but stresses the need for industry consultation. UKVIA has submitted amendments to address these issues. They have reached out to government officials to challenge the selection process for the committee. The exclusion of industry voices risks inadequate scrutiny of the Bill.

Swedish snus, a cultural icon from Sweden, offers a unique nicotine experience spreading globally, including the U.S. Known for its rich history and innovative varieties, such as traditional and tobacco-free options, Swedish snus appeals to a diverse audience for its quality and authenticity. As it gains popularity abroad, especially in the American market, Swedish snus showcases a blend of tradition and innovation, positioning it as a sought-after product in the evolving global consumer landscape. The future looks promising for Swedish snus, with growing interest in international products and changing consumer preferences driving its potential expansion and integration into daily routines worldwide.

Fruit-flavoured prescription-only nicotine vapes for adults wanting to move away from cigarettes should be made available, manufacturers have told senators, as they throw their support behind new legislation aimed at stamping out the black market. After new laws came into effect in March that banned the importation of unlicensed vapes, the parliament is now considering the next tranche of legislation that would limit access to e-cigarettes to prescription only.

Parentline reports a significant increase in calls from worried parents about vaping and e-cigarettes among children, with 76 calls in the first four months of this year compared to 10 last year. Some parents believe vaping is causing anxiety in their children. The rise in anxiety-related calls is also linked to school-related stress and challenges reintegrating post-Covid. The charity emphasizes concerns about children showing anger and aggression towards parents. The HSE warns of mental health issues associated with e-cigarette use. Parentline operates a national helpline for parenting support, receiving calls on a variety of issues.

Colin Mendelsohn, a veteran Australian tobacco harm reduction advocate, recently had the opportunity to educate lawmakers about the science underpinning vaping, the moral panic surrounding nicotine and the consequences of Australia's prohibitionist stance on vaping. In this episode we have collected a series of powerful points that Colin made in his discussion with lawmakers.

Medscape, a popular medical platform, offers educational videos for doctors to obtain license renewal credits. A controversy arose when tobacco harm reduction videos funded by Philip Morris International were removed due to protests. Despite factual presentations on reduced-risk products like e-cigarettes, opposition persists against industry-funded research. Efforts to suppress tobacco alternatives hinder medical knowledge and innovation. The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World faced backlash for its ties to the tobacco industry but later distanced itself. Critics argue against canceling research collaborations, emphasizing the importance of transparent scientific inquiry for public health benefits.

Virginia has enacted a one-year delayed ban on flavored vapes, aligning with other states imposing PMTA registry bills to regulate the vaping industry. Advocates argue the bills protect consumers, while critics say they restrict choices and harm small businesses vital for tobacco harm reduction. The FDA's PMTA process faces backlash for favoring big tobacco companies and hindering safer vape alternatives. Altria supports the legislation, emphasizing the need to combat illegal vape sales. Governor Youngkin approved Virginia's bill with a delay, facing opposition due to potential economic losses and job cuts.