Author: moonswamp

A comprehensive review of 123 studies involving 4 million participants under 29 found no definitive evidence that vaping leads to cigarette smoking among youth. Published in the journal Addiction, the research challenges the widely debated “gateway theory” and highlights the complexity of understanding vaping’s impact on smoking behaviors. “Some evidence suggests vaping may contribute to declining youth smoking rates, particularly in the U.S.,” said Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, senior author and assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. “But the data is open to multiple interpretations, and we need more studies to establish causal links.” The Gateway vs. Diversion Debate Public health…

Hong Kong is set to implement a strict ban on the possession and use of e-cigarettes in public spaces by mid-2026, as announced by Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau. This move is part of the city's broader anti-tobacco policies and follows the 2022 ban on the import, manufacture, and sale of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. The new regulation is expected to have significant implications for the travel and tourism industry, as visitors will need to comply with the rules to avoid penalties. Phased Implementation to Ensure Compliance Despite the 2022 restrictions, vaping remains common in Hong Kong, particularly among…

Vietnam has joined the Maldives in banning the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes starting January 2025. But which other popular tourist destinations have similar restrictions? Here’s a breakdown of where vaping is prohibited and where it’s allowed. Vietnam and the Maldives: Strict Vape Bans Starting January 1, 2025, Vietnam will enforce a nationwide ban on the import, production, sale, and use of e-cigarettes and vapes. Penalties include fines of up to 2 million Vietnamese dong (approximately $80 USD) for personal use and up to 3 billion dong (over $120,000 USD) or 15 years in prison for commercial activities.…

South Australia has taken a groundbreaking step by becoming the first Australian state to ban the sale of nicotine pouches. These small sachets, which contain alarmingly high levels of nicotine, are placed between the gums and lip for a rapid nicotine hit. Often marketed with appealing flavors, critics argue they mirror the tactics used by illegal vapes to target young users. High Nicotine Content Raises Concerns A single nicotine pouch can contain up to 120 milligrams of nicotine, far exceeding the 6 to 20 milligrams found in a traditional cigarette. This high concentration has sparked fears of addiction and health…

Illinois has implemented new vaping laws that took effect on January 1, 2023, banning electronic cigarettes in public places and regulating online purchases. However, these measures have drawn criticism from the Consumer Choice Center, an independent, nonpartisan consumer advocacy group based in Washington, D.C. Senate Bill 3098: Restricting Online Sales Illinois Senate Bill 3098, signed into law on August 9, 2022, prohibits the shipping of e-cigarettes purchased by mail, online, or through other remote sale methods to anyone in the state other than distributors or retailers. The legislation aims to protect youth from the dangers of vaping, as State Sen.…

Rhode Island's ban on the sale and possession with intent to sell flavored vape products officially took effect on New Year's Day, joining a list of new laws across Southern New England starting in 2025. The controversial legislation has drawn criticism from vape store owners who argue that it will harm their businesses, while state leaders maintain that e-cigarettes pose significant health risks, particularly for children. In addition to the flavored vape ban, Rhode Island has also implemented new taxes on vaping products. Single-use vape products will now be subject to a 50-cent per milliliter tax on e-liquid, while refillable…

Democratic lawmakers in Washington have launched a new effort to ban flavored tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes (vapes), menthol cigarettes, and nicotine pouches like Zyn. The proposed legislation, House Bill 1203, also targets "entertainment vapor products" that incorporate video games or music. State Rep. Kristine Reeves (D-Federal Way) filed the bill in the House on Wednesday, with State Sen. T'wina Nobles (D-University Place) set to sponsor the Senate version. The ban, if passed, would take effect on January 1, 2026. Advocates Cite Concerns Over Youth Vaping Epidemic Supporters of the ban, including Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal, argue that…

Mexico has taken a significant step towards protecting public health by introducing a groundbreaking constitutional reform that bans the production, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes (vaping devices), chemical precursors, and the illicit use of fentanyl. The amendment, which modifies Articles 4 and 5 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, has received the green light from the Permanent Commission of the Congress of the Union after gaining support from 22 state congresses. Reform Tackles Respiratory Risks and Synthetic Drug Production The reform, which now awaits publication in the Official Gazette of the Federation to come into force, explicitly…

A recent study conducted by researchers from UVA Cancer Center, Fort Liberty Department of Public Health, and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center has found that American soldiers are 10 times more likely to use nicotine pouches compared to the average American adult. The survey, which analyzed anonymous responses from 1,957 soldiers at Fort Liberty, the largest American military base, revealed that 23.8% of participants reported using nicotine pouches in the previous 30 days. Nicotine Pouch Use on the Rise The study, conducted in 2022 and 2023, showed an increase in nicotine pouch popularity among soldiers, with usage rates rising from…

The State of Iowa has agreed to postpone the enforcement of a new law restricting the sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), also known as e-cigarettes and vaping products, following a lawsuit filed by several vape companies. The law, set to take effect next month, requires that all vaping products sold in Iowa have either received marketing authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or have a pending application for authorization filed by September 2020. In December, a group of six vape companies, including Alternatives to Smoking & Tobacco Inc. and Global Source Distribution, sued the state in…