Author: Nick Schager

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 U.S. soldiers are ten times more likely to use nicotine pouches than the average American adult. These highly addictive pouches have been linked to serious health concerns, including cardiovascular risks, lung and stomach problems, gum ulcers, oral health issues, and nicotine's potential to promote cancer growth. The study, published in the scientific journal JAMA Network Open, analyzed anonymous responses from 1,957 soldiers surveyed at Fort Liberty, the largest U.S. military base, in 2022 and 2023.…

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…

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…