Stories

The Daily Mail's sensationalist article exaggerates fears about nicotine pouches, using biased sources like Becky Freeman and Jody Morgan. Despite claims of targeting children, the piece lacks evidence and misrepresents facts. The focus on vague dangers and alarmist language perpetuates misinformation. The article overlooks the potential benefits of less harmful alternatives to traditional smoking. The need for accurate information is highlighted by Derbydave's hesitation to try nicotine pouches due to media-induced misconceptions.

The UK Vaping Industry Association supports the Royal College of Physicians' report on vaping and smoking cessation, warning against potential flavor bans. It praises the report's emphasis on reducing youth vaping, improving healthcare advice, and cracking down on rogue traders. The association urges the government to consider the report's evidence-based recommendations, highlighting vaping's role in helping smokers quit. It also stresses the importance of maintaining diverse flavors, proper packaging, and regulatory control to support smokers switching to e-cigarettes. The industry aligns with the report's goal of reducing smoking-related health inequalities and promoting vaping as a safer alternative.

Brazil's Anvisa board maintained the ban on e-cigarette sales due to concerns about increasing use among youth, lack of long-term health studies, and addictive potential. Anvisa emphasized the need for stricter enforcement and educational campaigns against vaping. The Brazilian Medical Association supported the ban, citing the risks of nicotine and toxic substances in vapes on lung health. Conversely, the tobacco industry criticized the decision, arguing that regulation, not prohibition, is the solution. The debate continues in the Senate on regulating electronic cigarettes in Brazil. Despite pressure from manufacturers, Anvisa stands firm on the vape ban, aligning with WHO recommendations.

Slovenia has recently enacted a flavour ban that has further cemented its hardening attitude to vaping, but have consumers' voices been ignored throughout these considerations? Joining us today is Liza Katsiashvili of the World Vapers' Alliance to discuss the impact of FCTC and WHO directives on vaping regulations around Europe, and the consumer reaction to Slovenia's flavour ban.

India failed to differentiate between traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. Despite acknowledging these differences for taxation, the ban on e-cigarettes remained uniform. The country, grappling with a high number of smokers, should consider harm reduction strategies like other nations. India's focus on tobacco control has had limited success, with a significant burden of tobacco-related diseases. The government must explore safer alternatives and tailor regulations based on toxicant levels.

Does the regulator responsible for overseeing tobacco products in the U.S. believe in the practice of tobacco harm reduction? According to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, the answer is a resounding no. Appearing before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Califf repeatedly dismissed THR as an “industry term” and refused to answer questions on the topic. Joining us today to discuss the ramifications of the commissioner’s testimony is Tony Abboud, executive director of the Vapor Technology Association. We review informed questioning by U.S. House Reps and take a deep dive into problematic responses by the commissioner.

Dr. Robson from King’s College London suggests using alternatives like banning colorful vape packaging to address rising young people vaping rates, in response to the government's plan to ban disposable vapes. Research shows standard packaging reduces teen interest, especially in sweet flavors. Dr. Robson highlights the appeal of sweet flavors to both youth and adults and mentions the complex nature of the issue. Menthol bans have had varying success, with Dr. Robson pointing out the existing workaround problems. ASH's Deputy CEO explains the appeal of disposable vapes goes beyond flavor, affecting market trends. London has lower youth vaping rates but still significant compared to the UK.

This commentary explores how social media influenced public health narratives and responses during two recent health crises, the COVID-19 global pandemic and the e-cigarette or vaping product use–associated lung injury (EVALI) epidemic. In the context of COVID-19 pandemic, social media played a dual role, acting as both a catalyst for information dissemination and a breeding ground for misinformation. This situation highlighted the challenges public health institutions face in navigating online narratives and maintaining public trust during crises.