Breaking News: Malaysian Parliament Triumphs in Passing the 2023 Public Health & Tobacco Control Bill—A Game-Changer!

Malaysia’s Parliament Passes Public Health and Tobacco Product Control Bill 2023

In a significant development, Malaysia’s Parliament has successfully passed the Public Health and Tobacco Product Control Bill of 2023. The bill, proposed by Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, the Minister of Health, aims to protect public health by implementing strict measures against the sale and purchase of tobacco products and tobacco alternatives, as well as any services related to smoking for minors.

One noteworthy aspect of this bill is the removal of a provision established under the Generation Ending Smoking Act (GEG). Initially, this law prohibited the sale of tobacco products and cigarettes to individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. However, with the passing of the Public Health and Tobacco Product Control Bill, this provision has been repealed.

The bill was introduced in Parliament on November 28th and underwent a second reading the following day. With a total of 54 provisions, it was deliberated by 27 parliament members, highlighting the importance and thoroughness of the legislative process.

Dr. Zaliha expressed gratitude towards the former Health Minister for addressing tobacco-related issues and drafting this crucial legislation. She acknowledged their efforts and stated, “They have made significant contributions in tackling the overall tobacco issue and formulating specific bills, for which I am deeply grateful to the Malaysian Parliament.”

In addition to the Public Health and Tobacco Product Control Bill, the Malaysian Parliament has also passed the Food (Amendment) Act 2023. This act aims to amend the existing 1983 Food Act in alignment with the Public Health and Tobacco Control Act 2023, further strengthening the country’s commitment to public health.

It is important to note that this article is based on a translation from an original Chinese source by AI, reviewed and edited by our English editorial team. The Chinese original text remains the authoritative source of information. We thank 2FIRSTS Technology Co., Ltd. for providing the content.
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Another Study Refutes The Gateway Theory Stating The Opposite is True


In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift away from smoking tobacco: a highly lethal habit, towards vaping, which science has shown us poses only a fraction of the risks associated with smoking

A recent research letter published in JAMA Internal Medicine explored smoking and vaping patterns in young adults, offering insights into the relationship between the two behaviors. Led by researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) who analyzed data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, the study revealed a significant shift in tobacco use among young adults, with more individuals initiating nicotine intake through vaping rather than traditional cigarettes.

Discussing the study, Dr. Sarah Jackson, Principal Research Fellow at the UCL Tobacco and Alcohol Research Group, emphasized the concern about vaping acting as a potential gateway to smoking among young individuals. However, recent studies suggest a different trend, indicating that vaping may be actually displacing smoking, steering those who might have chosen smoking towards a less harmful option.

The research letter highlighted that in the last decade, a significant proportion of young adults have consumed nicotine. However in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift away from smoking tobacco: a highly lethal habit, towards vaping, which science has shown us poses only a fraction of the risks associated with smoking. Dr. Jackson suggests that this shift could have net public health benefits.

An increase in the number of vapers who have never smoked

The data also highlighted an increase in the proportion of young adult vapers who were never established smokers. Professor Peter Hajek from Queen Mary University of London said that the study’s findings refute the common concern that e-cigarettes act as a gateway to smoking. Instead, they suggest that vapes may divert young people from more risky smoking behaviors, leading to a proportional decrease in smoking rates.

Professor Caitlin Notley from the University of East Anglia noted that the study aligns with evidence from England, where historically low tobacco smoking rates coincided with increased vaping among young people. This trend corresponds with the widespread availability of disposable vapes and nicotine-salt based e-liquids.

The reduction in smoking is seen as a positive development for public health, emphasizing the importance of clearly communicating that vaping is a reduced harm alternative to smoking. However, added Professor Notley, there is widespread confusion across the US, partly stems from the fact that vapes are incorrectly classified as tobacco products. This naturally leads to misperceptions about the relative harms of vaping compared to smoking.

Countless previous studies have come to the same conclusion, however claims about an alleged gateway to smoking and/or substance use, have never stopped resurfacing. Another recent study, is the most comprehensive to date on the topic. In order to carry out an investigation at the population level, the research team examined associations of vape use and sales, with smoking rates and cigarette sales across different age and socioeconomic groups. The researchers then proceeded to compare smoking prevalence over time in countries with contrasting regulations of these products, such as the UK and the US, versus Australia.

A gateway out of, not into, smoking

In line with previous findings, the results indicated that not only was there no gateway to smoking, but also that vaping products have actually facilitated smoking cessation and led to decreased smoking rates in countries where they are endorsed. In fact, as the rise in sales of heated tobacco products in Japan has coincided with a reduction in cigarette sales.

Moreover, the decrease in smoking prevalence in Australia appears to have slowed down in comparison to countries which have endorsed tobacco harm reduction. This deceleration is particularly evident among young individuals and in lower socioeconomic groups, and is significant when compared to both the UK and the US. Finally, cigarette sales have declined at a much quicker rate in the United Kingdom than in Australia.

New Study Analyses Whether Vaping is a “Gateway” to Teen Cannabis Use 

 



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FDA bans Juul from selling its vaping products in the U.S.


The axe has fallen for e-cigarette maker Juul.

The FDA ordered the company to stop selling and distributing its ubiquitous vaping devices in the U.S. Thursday, a dramatic end for a company that dominated the e-cigarette market and was valued at $38 billion at the top of its game.

Juul will no longer be able to sell its vapes nor its 5% or 3% tobacco and menthol-flavored pods in the U.S. without “risk[ing] enforcement action” from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retailers will also be prohibited from stocking Juul products in the U.S.

The FDA’s ban against Juul came after the company failed to provide consistent evidence about the safety of its vapes and tobacco pods.

“As with all manufacturers, JUUL had the opportunity to provide evidence demonstrating that the marketing of their products meets these standards,” Acting Director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products Michele Mital said. “However, the company did not provide that evidence and instead left us with significant questions.”

In a statement to TechCrunch, Juul’s Chief Regulatory Officer Joe Murillo said that the company would pursue a stay and is exploring its other options to counter the FDA’s ban on its products. The company pushed back against the FDA’s characterization of the information it provided to the regulatory agency.

“In our applications, which we submitted over two years ago, we believe that we appropriately characterized the toxicological profile of JUUL products, including comparisons to combustible cigarettes and other vapor products, and believe this data, along with the totality of the evidence, meets the statutory standard of being ‘appropriate for the protection of the public health,’” Murillo said.

The FDA clarifies that its actions don’t directly restrict individual possession or use of Juul products, though obtaining the company’s vapes and pods is about to be much more difficult for U.S.-based users.

Regulatory woes had already cut deeply into the company’s valuation, but the FDA’s actions spell outright doom for its U.S. operations. Juul competitors Reynolds American and NJOY Holdings previously received authorization and will be allowed to continue selling their own products, though the FDA maintains that tobacco is harmful and addictive even when vaped.



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VAPORESSO Launches BFCM Online Store Event to Celebrate and Give Back to Customers • VAPE HK


 VAPORESSO, a leading innovator in the vaping industry, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) campaign on its online store. Set to add sparkle to the forthcoming shopping season, this initiative aims to show appreciation to loyal customers by providing innovative, high-quality products at reduced prices.

The campaign is scheduled to take place from November 17 to December 4, 2023, and will be split into two stages. The initial stage, spanning from November 17 to 24, will showcase daily deals on various product categories, offering a minimum discount of 15% on orders and up to 30% off on specific products. Selected clearance items will be available at a 50% discount. Additionally, a spin-the-wheel lottery will be held, providing an opportunity to win free XROS 3 devices, with ten slots up for grabs.

The second stage will run from November 25 to December 4. During this period, VAPORESSO will maintain the product discounts introduced in the first stage, offering a maximum discount of $25 per order (only be used once per customer). Additionally, VAPORESSO will host another spin-the-wheel lottery, where customers have the chance to win free orders. Throughout the entire promotional period, an extra 15% discount will be applied to pink LUXE XR MAX, LUXE X PRO, and LUXE Q2 SE devices. It’s important to note that these discounts are only valid for purchases made through VAPORESSO’s official online store.

VAPORESSO is proud to highlight the innovative features of its key products. The LUXE XR MAX, designed to enhance efficiency, boasts a super high-density battery in a compact size, offering a 40% larger battery capacity than other 80W POD MOD devices. The LUXE X PRO, a Pro-level 40W Pod Mod, offers dual activation mode and adjustable wattage and airflow for a tailored vaping experience. The LUXE Q2 SE, an easy-to-use MTL Pod for beginners, delivers accurate flavor and great nicotine satisfaction.

More details can be found at https://store.vaporesso.com/pages/2023-VAPORESSO-bfcm .

 

About VAPORESSO

VAPORESSO was created in 2015 and is dedicated to establishing a smoke-free world while raising the quality of life for its users. Based on its continuous innovation, strict quality control, and substantial commitment, VAPORESSO creates products that can fit all levels and styles of vapers.

For more information, please visit: https://www.vaporesso.com/ .



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IQOS ILUMA: Montenegro’s Cutting-Edge Smokeless Tobacco Heating Product for a Revolutionary Experience

Philip Morris International (PMI) is set to launch its heated tobacco product, IQOS ILUMA, in Montenegro this month, according to a report by Vijesti on November 23rd.

IQOS ILUMA incorporates a revolutionary SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™ technology, which uses induction to heat tobacco without combustion. This innovation significantly reduces the generation of toxic substances compared to traditional smoking methods.

Montenegro is a picturesque country located in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula, along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. It shares borders with Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, Albania to the southeast, and Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia to the northwest. The stunning Adriatic Sea stretches to its southwest.

Statista data indicates that the e-cigarette market revenue in Montenegro is projected to reach $1.3 million by 2023. Furthermore, the market is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate of 4.14% from 2023 to 2028. The popularity of e-cigarettes has soared in Montenegro, with both locals and tourists turning to this alternative to conventional smoking.

The source of this information is an original article published on 2firsts.cn by AI and subsequently reviewed and edited by the English editorial team at 2FIRSTS Technology Co., Ltd. Please note that the Chinese original text holds the sole authority over the content. To reproduce, reprint, or redistribute this article, express written permission from 2FIRSTS is required. Furthermore, proper attribution and a link to this content are mandatory. Failure to comply may result in legal consequences, as 2FIRSTS Technology Co., Ltd. retains the exclusive copyright and license rights to this article, taking strict action against any unauthorized use or distribution.
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Exciting Adventures Await at VAPEXPO France and Vapitaly 2024: Dive into the Vape Scene!

Embark on a Vaping Journey at VAPEXPO France and Vapitaly 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of vaping! VAPEXPO France and Vapitaly 2024 are the rendezvous points for vaping aficionados and trailblazing brands. These events are not just exhibitions; they’re celebrations of vaping culture, brimming with innovation, community, and endless opportunities.

Discover the Charms of VAPEXPO France 2024

Mark your calendars for March 23-25, 2024, because VAPEXPO Paris is gearing up to welcome you at the stunning Paris Porte de Versailles. Renowned as a trendsetter in the vape expo scene, VAPEXPO France is where tradition waltzes with modernity. Whether you’re there to showcase your brand or to indulge in the latest vaping trends, you’re in for a treat. The expo’s track record of drawing vast, diverse crowds is a testament to its magnetic appeal in the vaping community.

For a sneak peek and booth bookings, twirl over to VAPEXPO France and IECIE Booth Reservation.

Vapitaly 2024: Where Italian Elegance Meets Global Vaping Innovations

As spring blossoms in 2024, Vapitaly invites you to the enchanting city of Verona, Italy. Scheduled for May 25-27, 2024 at the prestigious Veronafiere, Vapitaly is an exquisite blend of Italian flair and global innovation. This partnership between IECIE and Vapitaly has become a landmark event, uniting Chinese advancements with the European vaping scene. The Italian vaping market, abuzz with potential, makes Vapitaly the perfect stage for global brands to shine and for vaping connoisseurs to discover new horizons. It’s a vibrant meeting place for international exhibitors and visitors, all coming together to shape the future of vaping.

Join this eclectic celebration by visiting Vapitaly and reserving your spot at the IECIE Booth Reservation page.

Why Should You Be There?

  1. Forge Connections: Mingle with a global tapestry of vaping enthusiasts, pioneers, and mavericks.
  2. Gain Insights: Stay in tune with the heartbeat of the latest vaping trends and innovations.
  3. Showcase Your Passion: Let your brand shine in front of a diverse, enthusiastic audience.
  4. Expand Horizons: Uncover new opportunities and avenues for growth in the bustling world of vaping.

Conclusion

Your Passport to the Vaping World VAPEXPO France and Vapitaly 2024 are more than events; they’re portals to a world where vaping culture thrives and evolves. Whether you’re a seasoned brand or a curious vaper, these expos are your ticket to a realm of discovery and connection. So, gear up for an exhilarating ride into the heart of vaping – it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss! Contact IECIE for more info now:

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Exciting Adventures Await at VAPEXPO France and Vapitaly 2024: Dive into the Vape Scene!最先出现在IECIE 2023 WORLD VAPE SHOW

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South Africa’s Controversial Tobacco Bill


For many, the most concerning aspects of the bill are the severe penalties it proposes, such as an imprisonment of ten years, even for minor offenses.

South Arica’s controversial “Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill“, has ignited significant public backlash due to its proposed prohibitions, price hikes, and harsh penalties. The bill aims to ban the display of tobacco and vape products in retail settings, including in specialty tobacco stores. It brings about substantial price increases for cigarettes, as well as for safer nicotine alternatives and sets a new sin tax on all nicotine products.

Tobacco harm reduction (THR) experts have incessantly argued that the bill unfairly lumps electronic delivery systems, including vapes, with traditional tobacco, hindering harm reduction efforts. Vape advocates, such as Tshepo Ranko and Dr. Kgosi Letlape, express concerns over this approach, emphasizing the ethical responsibility to provide information on harm reduction products to smokers seeking safer alternatives. As the president of the African Harm Reduction Alliance, Letlape worries that the bill marginalizes nicotine users, including those who have chosen vaping as a safer alternative to cigarettes.

Similarly, but perhaps not surprisingly, a survey involving tobacconists and small businesses across South Africa has revealed an overwhelming opposition to the proposed changes. Of the 1,769 stores surveyed, with a total of 3,194 employees, 98% of respondents from small operations strongly disagree with the display ban. Three-quarters of respondents feel that the bill criminalizes legal businesses. Others have highlighted that bans are ineffective, a point which has been proven by the negative impact the local tobacco ban set during COVID-19 has had.

For many, the most concerning aspects of the bill are the severe penalties it proposes, such as an imprisonment of ten years. This penalty applies not only to extreme cases but also to individuals caught displaying a single packet of cigarettes over the counter. The public response on social media has indicated widespread anger at the perceived inhumanity of such severe punishments for minor offenses. If enacted, the bill could also lead to significant social and economic consequences, with potential implications for small businesses and subsequently the broader public.

The importance of differentiating between cigarettes and their safer alternatives

In contrast, the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT) has acknowledged the potential of vaping in aiding smoking cessation in its report on non-communicable diseases. Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA), commended the EU committee’s recognition of vaping as a means to reduce smoking-related illnesses, emphasizing its role in supporting public health goals and assisting smokers in quitting.

The WVA advocates for the integration of supportive measures for harm reduction strategies like vaping into the EU’s public health policies. The group has consistently stressed that thoughtful regulations should be crafted to preserve vaping as a viable option for those wanting to quit smoking, given that it was proven effective at reducing smoking rates and therefore reducing non-communicable diseases.

An Open Letter to South African Tobacco Control Expert Suggests Amending Vape Bill



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New vital reports stress the urgency of saving the lives of smokers


New vital reports stress the urgency of saving the lives of smokers, with step-by-step recommendations on how best to act in a public health crisis. 

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) have had their latest fact sheet printed in a recent Planetofthevapes Issue, summarising their findings on e-cigarette usage amid adults in the UK. 

The data reveals behaviours, preferences, and estimates, including a statistic stating that as of this year, the population of e-cigarette users in the UK alone will be almost 5 million. 

According to their findings, the scale of people using vapes is at an all-time high of 9.1 percent, with over half the vaping population having used the tools to quit smoking. 

Although 4.7 million people are currently vaping in the UK, ASH reports that 1.7 million, equating to 37 percent, are still using traditional tobacco in addition to e-cigarettes. 

The biggest takeaway from the survey were the identified reasons as to why so many current smokers haven’t made the switch, with twenty percent saying they wouldn’t want to replace one addiction with another. 

Other reasons consisted of thirteen percent of the smoking population not believing that e-cigarettes would help them quit, and 8.4 percent being too uninformed about the safety of vapes. 

The report authors said: “There is an opportunity to make significant improvements to the health of our nation in just five to ten years, benefitting millions of people, society, our economy and health systems.” 

They continued with: “Our high level of premature, often avoidable ill health, damages lives, our society, localities, and our economy. 

Without resolute action it will get worse. We must act so that lives are not degraded, and to sustain our health services and labour supply.” 

A new report led by public services expert Lord Filkin, and flanked by the King’s Fund think tank, highlights suggestions that aim to do exactly that, including the prescription of vapes. 

The report states that a commitment to spend on preventative measures should be affordable, suggesting that 10p out of every £1 of the NHS budget would be enough to improve the nation’s health. 

Prescribing vaping devices to smokers would cut down cigarette consumption by three million people, though the report has warned that a clamp down on marketing and sales should accompany this. 

The experts narrowed down the public health priorities to nine areas with specific intervention suggestions for each area, including smoking, air quality, early detection of illness, and health inequalities. 

Of all these priority areas, the report acknowledges that more funding would be needed specifically to reduce the number of smokers in the UK, but suggests that the cost could be subsidised by the tobacco industry. 

Filkin’s report put forward the argument that the poor health of the nation currently costs the government up to £16bn a year, and so following their propositions would not only save lives, but money. 

 

Discover more News from Vapouround

Enjoyed this article? Why not take a look at our other vape articles by visiting the ‘News‘ section of the Vapouround website.



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Unveiling the Environmental Hazard of Disposable E-Cigarettes in the UK: Startling Evidence

Title: Disposal of Disposable E-Cigarettes in the UK Poses Environmental and Safety Risks

Introduction:
The UK is facing a concerning environmental and safety issue as approximately five million disposable e-cigarettes are discarded each week. This staggering statistic equates to enough e-cigarettes to fill Scotland’s iconic Loch Ness in less than six weeks. Not only does this contribute to environmental challenges, but it also poses potential threats due to the internal lithium-ion batteries.

Environmental Impact:
Disposable e-cigarettes are causing significant environmental damage due to their improper disposal. These devices contain lithium-ion batteries, which, if not handled correctly, can lead to fires and explosions. The lithium ions present in these batteries pose a threat to both the environment and personal safety. Proper disposal methods and recycling programs need to be implemented to mitigate these risks and reduce the adverse impact on our surroundings.

Safety Concerns:
The study conducted on disposable e-cigarettes has highlighted the potential dangers associated with their improper disposal. The internal lithium-ion batteries can be hazardous when not handled or recycled properly. The risk of fires and explosions creates a safety concern for both individuals and the environment. Taking appropriate measures to ensure the safe disposal and recycling of these devices is crucial to prevent accidents and protect public safety.

Addressing the Issue:
To combat this growing problem, it is essential for authorities to implement effective strategies. Establishing comprehensive recycling initiatives and educating the public about proper disposal methods can significantly reduce the negative impact on the environment. Promoting the use of rechargeable e-cigarettes instead of disposables can also alleviate the growing waste issue while minimizing safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Conclusion:
The alarming number of discarded disposable e-cigarettes in the UK raises serious environmental and safety concerns. The proper disposal of these devices, particularly regarding their lithium-ion batteries, is essential to prevent potential fires, explosions, and environmental damage. As a society, we must prioritize sustainable practices and encourage responsible behavior to mitigate these risks and preserve the well-being of both our planet and its inhabitants.
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