
Recently, according to Allafrica, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a widespread belief in the scientific community that this crisis would bridge the gap between scientific data and policy formulation, potentially leading to evidence-based regulations. However, the reality has shown that in the short term, this hasn't occurred in the development of health policies or subsequent Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) policies.
According to data, the growth rate of the new nicotine product industry has exceeded expectations, with the global market value projected to surpass $50 billion and the user base exceeding 100 million. However, the nicotine industry is currently facing severe setbacks due to challenges such as regulation, taxation, and bans.
The stringent regulation of new nicotine products has also been criticized by the American Psychological Association for the dissemination of incorrect information, which they interpret as misinformation or factual inaccuracies. Although the term is often used interchangeably with "fake news," experts argue that fake news is intentionally used to mislead facts.
Professor Solomon Rataemane, dean of the School of Psychology at the University of South Africa, has highlighted that the new legislation aiming to regulate the tobacco industry in South Africa has received widespread criticism from various stakeholders. According to him, critics argue that novel tobacco products such as e-cigarettes might have a positive impact on reducing tobacco-related harm, as they could potentially improve lung function among users.
Professor Giuseppe Biondi Zoccai, Associate Professor of Cardiology at the Catholic University of Rome, stated that despite scientific evidence indicating numerous health benefits of current nicotine products, such evidence is not sufficient to convince decision-makers to make the right decisions.
Mrs. Marewa Glover, when discussing New Zealand being widely perceived as a successful case, stated that their policies should no longer be copied as the best examples.
She emphasized that education should be the top priority, not taxes. In New Zealand, taxes are so high compared to income that the lowest socio-economic smoking groups often can no longer afford to buy legal cigarettes, leading to other issues. People turn to the black market or cut funds from their food budgets. Many policies have negative consequences, particularly for the lowest socio-economic groups, but good policies should take these impacts into consideration.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.