Author: Nick Schager

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…

Texas Tech Physicians specialists have shared valuable insights on the dangers of smoking, vaping, and dipping, as well as tips for overcoming these addictions. According to Sara Tello, a nurse practitioner specializing in treating tobacco dependency, a comprehensive treatment plan and compassionate support can significantly improve success rates for those trying to quit. The Importance of a Personalized Approach Tello emphasizes the need for a personalized approach when helping individuals quit tobacco products. Rather than setting strict "quit dates" or making people feel stressed, she focuses on finding the right strategy for each person. "It's a process," Tello explains, adding…

A recent study, co-led by a researcher from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, sought to identify the most effective strategies to help people quit vaping. The results, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, suggest that varenicline, a prescription medication often used to help people quit smoking, and SMS interventions may aid individuals in their efforts to stop vaping. Growing Demand for Vaping Cessation Support "This is an area of research that is in its infancy but is growing rapidly and organically due to people who vape asking for help to stop," said lead author Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, a Senior…

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…

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered the remarkable ability of the human body, particularly the heart and immune system, to recover after quitting smoking. The findings offer hope and motivation for smokers looking to break free from the deadly habit. Smoking's Devastating Impact As the leading preventable cause of cancer, smoking cigarettes wreaks havoc on nearly every system of the body. Tobacco smoke damages blood vessels, the respiratory tract, bones, teeth, gums, and more. It can even impair sexual function and fertility. The study, led by Violaine Saint-André, found that smoking leaves lasting effects on the immune system, with…

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…

Vietnam has introduced new regulations that impose fines for vaping, as part of a broader effort to curb the growing use of electronic cigarettes and protect public health. The new rules, which came into effect at the beginning of the year, prohibit the possession, sale, and use of e-cigarettes and nicotine liquids in the country. Anyone caught using e-cigarettes in Vietnam now faces fines of up to 2 million dong (approximately $80). The penalties for importing, trading, transporting, or producing these devices are even more severe, with offenders risking imprisonment for up to 15 years. These regulations apply to tourists…

As a former smoker, I can attest to the fact that smoking is one of the most destructive habits you can adopt. Not only does it drain your wallet and diminish your appearance, but it can also significantly reduce your life expectancy. While this information is not new to most people, thanks to successful anti-smoking campaigns that have persuaded millions to quit, a perplexing trend has emerged among Gen Z, who have begun smoking cigars and pipes. Alarming Spike in Cigar and Pipe Smoking According to data collected by University College London and funded by Cancer Research UK, the number…

A recent study conducted by the University of Edinburgh has revealed that vapes are four times more profitable for convenience stores compared to tobacco products. The research, which analyzed data from September 2022, found that convenience stores make an average profit of 37.1% for vape products, while tobacco products yield a mere 8.5% profit. Nine-Fold Increase in Vape Sales The study also highlighted a significant surge in vape sales over the past three years. The average weekly number of transactions per store that included vapes skyrocketed from 10 in 2019 to 93 in 2022, marking a nine-fold increase. Researchers noted…

San Antonio has officially banned vaping in all public spaces, requiring patrons to take their e-cigarettes outside of restaurants, bars, and other establishments. The City Council unanimously approved the prohibition in October, and it took effect on Wednesday, bringing the city's smoking ordinance up to date with the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes. Smoking and Vaping Restrictions Expand While smoking in all enclosed public spaces has been illegal in San Antonio since 2010, and the city banned all tobacco usage, including vaping, from parks, plazas, and public squares in 2019, vaping remained technically allowed indoors until now. The city's previous…