WHO spurns the world’s most successful anti-smoking story
by Dr Delon Human, leader of Smoke Free Sweden The World Health Organization’s (WHO) latest report on nicotine pouches claims to expose the marketing tactics behind the global rise of…
News & Articles
Economists warn EU nicotine tax hikes will derail fight against smoking
LEADING international economists are warning that the European Union’s proposed new taxes on smokeless nicotine products could undermine efforts to reduce smoking, discourage smokers from switching to safer alternatives and…
EU health chief repeats false claims on nicotine products despite scientific backlash
BRUSSELS – Europe’s Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi has doubled-down in his misinformation campaign against smoke-free nicotine products in the face of fierce criticism from leading international scientists. Despite being publicly…
Belgium’s flavour ban risks pushing smokers back to cigarettes
Belgium’s decision to ban flavoured vapes has come under fire from international health experts, who warn the move will sabotage quit-smoking efforts and push former smokers back to deadly cigarettes.…
Argentina retreats from nicotine ban – now comes the real test
International health experts have cautiously welcomed Argentina’s decision to withdraw a blanket ban on smokeless nicotine products – but insist that greater access to these safer alternatives is key to…
Spain’s lawmakers accused of protecting cigarettes by blocking safer alternatives
International health experts have criticised new attempts by Spanish lawmakers to limit adult access to safer nicotine alternatives that could help combat their smoking crisis. The country’s two main political…
Nicotine alternatives ‘can turn world smoke-free by 2040’
Increased use of smoke-free nicotine products such as vapes and oral pouches can turn the world ‘smoke-free’ by 2040, according to ground-breaking new research by international health experts. The major…
Vaping overtakes smoking in Britain for the first time, in landmark moment for tobacco harm reduction
Vaping has surpassed smoking in Great Britain for the first time since records began in 1974, in a historic crossover that international health experts say vindicates the harm reduction approach…
Sweden’s smoke free success ignored as experts urge EU to change course
STOCKHOLM, 15 April – International health experts have urged European policymakers to rethink their approach to tobacco control, warning that the EU risks overlooking the world’s most successful anti-smoking model…
Open letter to Director General of DG Sante on behalf of Smoke Free Sweden
Sweden’s success must inform Europe’s next tobacco policy TO: Sandra Gallina, Director-General for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE) Dear Director-General, I write in response…
Sensational new data shows Sweden ‘already smoke-free’
STOCKHOLM – Sensational new research shows that Sweden is wiping out smoking even faster than previously thought. Latest statistics from the Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs…
EU report risks derailing smoke-free goals with attack on safer nicotine products
STOCKHOLM – International health experts today accused the European Commission of undermining its own smoke-free ambitions and putting millions of lives at risk by targeting safer nicotine alternatives that are helping…
Swedish lawmakers praised for challenging France’s ‘absurd’ nicotine ban
STOCKHOLM – International health experts have praised Swedish MEPs for their revolt against France’s sweeping ban on nicotine pouches, warning the prohibition is disproportionate, unscientific and risks undermining both public health…
EU tax crackdown on safer nicotine defies science and reality, expert warns
BRUSSELS – European policymakers are putting lives at risk with their unscientific push for punitive taxes on safer nicotine alternatives, a leading addiction researcher has warned. Greek cardiologist Konstantinos Farsalinos…
EU ‘stepping backwards’ as UK and Sweden lead the way to end smoking
BRUSSELS – Europe risks falling behind in the fight against smoking as the UK and Sweden drive down cigarette use through safer alternatives, according to international public health expert Dr Mark…
EU greenlights ‘reckless’ vape ban in defiance of WHO mandate to reduce tobacco harm
International health experts have condemned the European Commission’s approval of a “reckless” Bulgarian ban on disposable e-cigarettes, warning that the move will drive smokers back to deadly combustible tobacco and…
Swedish MEP hailed for defending nation’s life saving nicotine model in the EU
International health experts today hailed MEP Jessica Polfjärd for warning Brussels officials not to undermine the Swedish harm-reduction strategy that has driven the country to the brink of smoke-free status. Polfjärd (EPP,…
Retracted vaping study shows the real danger of misinformation in nicotine debate
STOCKHOLM – A scientific paper claiming to link vaping with cancer has been formally retracted by the Journal of Cancer Policy after editors found serious flaws that undermined its conclusions.…
Warning to Brussels: Don’t deprive women of best tool to quit smoking
BRUSSELS – On International Women’s Day (March 8), health experts are warning Brussels against jeopardising women’s health by restricting or banning nicotine pouches that have helped drive one of the world’s…
Scientists challenge EU Health Commissioner’s ‘misinformation’ on safer nicotine alternatives
STOCKHOLM – A group of 23 leading European scientists has publicly challenged “false and misleading” claims made by EU Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi about smoke-free nicotine products. In an open…
WHO’s misinformation on safer nicotine alternatives “will cost lives”
STOCKHOLM – International health experts have criticised the World Health Organization (WHO) for portraying safer nicotine alternatives as a public health menace, rather than recognising their role in accelerating declines…
Brussels’ own advisors urge: tax risk, not nicotine
STOCKHOLM – International health experts are urging European policymakers to rethink proposals that would hike taxes on lower-risk nicotine products, after a key EU advisory body warned such moves could…
Major review finds nicotine pouches could be safest alternative yet for smokers
STOCKHOLM – A major new scientific review reveals that oral nicotine pouches show all the signs of being the safest and most effective method of helping smokers to give up…
Brazil losing the fight against smoking as safer alternatives are kept out of reach
BRASILIA – Brazil is losing the battle against smoking due its negative stance on safer nicotine alternatives, according to a major new report released today. Leading international health experts have…
Spain’s rising female cancer deaths spark warning over nicotine pouch ban
MADRID – New research exposing an alarming rise in lung cancer mortality among Spanish women has triggered fierce criticism of Spain’s proposed ban on oral nicotine pouches, with international health…
EU nations revolt against Spain’s nicotine campdown, warning Brussels against overreach
STOCKHOLM – A growing revolt by EU member states against restrictive laws on safer nicotine alternatives is sending a clear warning to the European Commission as it considers changes to EU-wide tobacco control…
Sweden’s smoke-free success is ‘inconvenient truth’ for prohibitionists
BRUSSELS – Sweden’s rapid progress towards ‘smoke-free’ status is an “inconvenient” reality that contradicts those who seek to crack down on safer nicotine alternatives, say advocates of harm reduction. MEP…
MEPs uged to back nicotine pouches as ‘game-changing’ lifesaver in war on smoking
BRUSSELS – International experts met MEPs today to deliver this do-or-die plea: oral nicotine pouches are the game-changer in the war on smoking and must be made accessible, acceptable and…
Evidence disproves scaremongering about safer alternatives
STOCKHOLM – Leading international health experts have welcomed research dispelling the myth that safer nicotine alternatives are a “gateway” product for the underage. New evidence from New Zealand shows that…
EU accused of ‘anti-vax levels of science denial’ over safer nicotine products
STOCKHOLM – Leading international health experts have accused the European Commission of engaging in anti-vaccine-style science denial after it rejected overwhelming evidence that smoke-free nicotine products reduce smoking and smoking-related disease. The…
New Year, new chance to quit: report shows smokers best way to kick their habit
BUENOS AIRES – As millions of smokers embark on New Year’s resolutions to quit, new evidence from international health experts proves that safer nicotine alternatives such as vapes and oral nicotine…
Taxing safer alternatives backfires, pushing users back to deadly cigarettes
STOCKHOLM, Major new research has delivered a stark warning to governments considering punitive taxes on safer nicotine alternatives: when lower-risk products are made less affordable, most users return to smoking…
Nicotine pouches are key to reducing oral disease, new report finds
STOCKHOLM – A major new report by international health experts reveals how safer nicotine alternatives could be the most effective new weapon in the fight against oral disease that afflicts…
Berlin summit confronted deadly failures in Germany’s smoking policy
Berlin – International health experts met in Berlin on Monday 24th November to confront one of Germany’s most urgent public-health challenges: a stalled smoking rate that continues to claim 130,000…
Zambia’s tobacco bill risks blocking smokers’ best route to quit, new report warns
LUSAKA – Zambia’s new tobacco bill risks depriving smokers of their best chance to quit the deadly habit, according to a landmark new report released today. The comparative study, Tale…
Berlin Hosts Landmark Debate: Can Sweden’s Smoke-Free Blueprint Work for Germany?
Berlin is to host a major policy debate examining whether Sweden’s rapid progress towards becoming the world’s first smoke-free nation could offer a blueprint for German policymakers trying to reduce…
NZ Minister commended for defending science over ideology in tobacco control
STOCKHOLM – International health experts have commended New Zealand Associate Health Minister Casey Costello for defending safer nicotine alternatives against misinformation from pressure groups that is putting millions of lives…
Sri Lanka’s restrictive policies on safer nicotine ‘will cost 85,000 lives’
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s restrictive approach to safer nicotine alternatives is blocking escape routes for tobacco users and squandering the chance to save 85,000 lives, according to a major new…
Misinformation about safer nicotine alternatives is costing lives, experts warn
STOCKHOLM – International health experts today warned that misinformation about safer nicotine alternatives is endangering millions of lives by convincing smokers to stick with deadly cigarettes. New statistics published by Our World in…
Japan’s success in fight against smoking is an example for the world
By Dr. Hiroya Kumamaru Over the past decade, Japan has achieved one of the most significant public health shifts in the world. The introduction of heated tobacco products has transformed…
Historic day for Sweden, as nation is urged to defend its smoke-free success
STOCKHOLM – Sweden has become the world’s first smoke-free nation, with adult smoking below 5%, according to new data forecasts by Swedish economist David Sundén. This milestone, reportedly achieved on Saturday October…
UK must defend safer alternatives that are saving lives worldwide
By Martin Cullip Over the past decade, the United Kingdom has quietly built one of the world’s most successful public health strategies for reducing smoking. By embedding vaping into NHS…
How the Caribbean can capitalise on the safer nicotine revolution
By Dr. Delon Human Smoking remains a major public health challenge in the Caribbean. In Trinidad and Tobago, for example, almost one in three men smokes[1]. Elsewhere across the region, the…
European Commission’s misguided asault on safer nicotine alternatives risks lives
STOCKHOLM – International health experts have condemned the European Commission’s latest offensive against safer nicotine alternatives, calling it a “dangerous and misguided assault” on products that are helping millions of…
Experts warn Spain against blocking escape route for smokers
STOCKHOLM – Leading international health experts have issued a strong warning to the Spanish government over its draft tobacco bill, cautioning that equating safer nicotine alternatives with cigarettes will condemn…
Safer nicotine alternatives are transforming public health – New report
International experts urge policymakers to embrace harm reduction ahead of WHO tobacco summit STOCKHOLM – A landmark new report by international health experts reveals how safer nicotine alternatives are…
France’s pouch ban ‘a cruel joke’ that will turn holidaying Swedes into criminals
Health experts slam EU policies driving smokers back to cigarettes. International health experts have slammed France’s ban on nicotine pouches, warning that it will criminalise ordinary Europeans crossing borders with…
83 health experts urge EU: Don’t tax smokers out of life-saver alternative
STOCKHOLM – A coalition of 83 leading international health experts has issued a stark warning to the European Commission: imposing high taxes on safer nicotine alternatives will protect the cigarette…
Only 5 days left to oppose the secret Brussels plot to charge Swedes 700% more tax on nicotine pouches
STOCKHOLM – Swedes have just five days left to make their voices heard against Brussels’ plan to impose a devastating 700% tax hike on nicotine pouches – a move that…
Safer nicotine alternatives could save thousands of lives in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, experts say
PORT OF SPAIN – International health experts are urgently advising for immediate policy reform in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, insisting on the adoption of life-saving tobacco harm reduction strategies. They…
Health experts defend Sweden’s smoke-free success against EU’s 700% tax hike
Smoke Free Sweden submission urges Finance Minister to reject Brussels’ excise plan that threatens a proven harm reduction model and Swedish sovereignty STOCKHOLM – International health experts are rallying behind…
Restrictions on safer alternatives will fuel Bangladesh’s tobacco crisis, report warns
STOCKHOLM – 1st September 2025 – Restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes will fuel the tobacco epidemic that is responsible for more than one in five of all deaths in…
Pouches Close Sweden’s Tobacco Harm Reduction Gender Gap
BY KIRAN SIDHU Sweden’s use of the oral tobacco product snus has led it towards becoming the world’s first “smoke-free” country (defined as an overall smoking rate below 5 percent).…
Praise for New Zealand’s defence of safer alternatives on road to historic smoke-free success
STOCKHOLM – International experts have applauded New Zealand’s associate minister of health for her staunch defence of safer nicotine alternatives that have brought her country to the brink of official…
Safer nicotine alternatives ‘can save 85,000 Sri Lankan lives’
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – MORE than 85,000 lives could be saved by 2060 if Sri Lanka integrated safer nicotine products into its public health policies, according to a new report…
Health experts praise Swedish Finance Minister’s defence of nicotine pouches against EU
Stockholm – International health experts have applauded Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson’s robust defence of nicotine pouches in a brewing row with the European Union over safer alternatives to cigarettes.…
UZBEKISTAN’S RESTRICTIONS ON SAFER NICOTINE ALTERNATIVES ARE ‘COSTING THOUSANDS OF LIVES’
STOCKHOLM – Ground-breaking new research released today reveals Uzbekistan’s restrictive policies on safer alternatives to cigarettes are resulting in thousands of unnecessary deaths every year. The comprehensive study Tale of…
Media: Diario AS – Experts ask Spain to revise anti-smoking plan, warn of potential public health crisis: “The Swedish model is 200% more effective”
Spain’s Ministry of Health continues to advance its anti-smoking agenda, with the department led by Mónica García proposing a ban on nicotine pouches containing more than 0.99 mg of nicotine…
Media: HuffPost – Sweden sets an example on smoking, while Spain gets a sharp reprimand
Brussels has become the new battleground in Europe’s fight against smoking, placing Spain’s Ministry of Health – and its head, Mónica García – under intense pressure. The Spanish Government’s plan…
Irish Minister’s plan to ‘eradicate’ nicotine pouches will cost lives and condemn women to deadly cigarettes, warn health experts
New research shows pouches are a game-changer for female smokers – a ban would be a ‘public health catastrophe’ STOCKHOLM – International health experts today warned that the Irish government’s…
Oral nicotine pouches are a game-changer for women in Sweden’s smoke-free success
First-of-its-kind study reveals female-friendly pouches have revolutionised how to wipe out cigarettes Ground-breaking new research shows that oral nicotine pouches are the breakthrough innovation helping to accelerate Sweden’s journey towards…
World No Tobacco Day: Sweden proves tobacco harm reduction works
On World No Tobacco Day, Smoke Free Sweden urges global policymakers to adopt Sweden’s successful tobacco harm reduction strategies that have virtually wiped out smoking. Sweden’s policies built around safer…
Mexico’s hard line on safer alternatives is costing thousands of lives, says report
STOCKHOLM – MAJOR new research out today warns that Mexico’s hardline approach to safer nicotine products is backfiring – fuelling a smoking crisis that kills 65,000 people every year. The…
World Vape Day: A Public Health Opportunity We Cannot Afford to Miss
By Professor Heino Stöver, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences As we mark World Vape Day on 30 May, it is time for policymakers and public health professionals to confront an…
World Vape Day: Flavours save lives
By Dr. Konstantinos Farsalinos, MD, MPH – Cardiologist and Tobacco Harm Reduction Researcher, Greece Each year, on World Vape Day, we are reminded that the world continues to lose over…
Sweden steps up defence of pouches with EU objection to French ban
The Swedish government has stepped up its defence of safer alternatives for smokers in Europe by formally opposing a proposed French ban on nicotine pouches. Sweden has issued a so-called…
Sweden launches strong defence of safer alternatives for Europe
STOCKHOLM – The Swedish government has formally issued a strong defence of nicotine pouches in a bid to halt excessive restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes across Europe. In a…
EU nations push back against Spain’s ‘dangerous’ nicotine pouch ban
STOCKHOLM – A powerful bloc of European Union member states has formally opposed Spain’s proposed ban on nicotine pouches, as international health experts warn that adult access to safer nicotine…
International Harm Reduction Day: Sweden’s life-saving strategies can defeat smoking worldwide
STOCKHOLM – On International Harm Reduction Day (May 7), Smoke Free Sweden is calling on world leaders, public health authorities and civil society to embrace the proven harm reduction strategies that have…
Sweden praised for its stand against European restrictions on safer alternatives to smoking
STOCKHOLM – International health experts are applauding Sweden for opposing restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes in other EU member states and warn that blanket restrictions on nicotine products simply…
Restrictions on smoke-free alternatives could cost thousands of Spanish lives, report finds
A restrictive approach to safer smoke-free alternatives to cigarettes is hindering Spain’s fight against the toll of tobacco and putting tens of thousands of lives at risk, according to a…
French restrictions on safer alternatives trap millions in smoking, report warns
France’s restrictive stance on safer alternatives to cigarettes threatens to derail efforts to reduce the deadly toll of tobacco, according to major new research by international health experts. Their study,…
New milestone as Sweden enshrines policy that can turn the world smoke-free
Sweden has enshrined tobacco harm reduction in public health policy after becoming the first nation to prove it’s the most effective path to a smoke-free future. Thanks to Sweden’s stance…
Ireland still lost in the smoke as Sweden finds the pot of gold
Monday 17 March – As Ireland marks St. Patrick’s Day, it should also have been celebrating its year of becoming officially ‘smoke-free’. But it remains far from achieving its goal…
Pakistan must learn from Sweden to cut 164,000 annual smoking deaths, says report
March 12, 2025 – Pakistan risks missing a historic opportunity to curb its smoking epidemic that claims 164,000 lives a year, according to a major report released today by international…
Finland’s flavour ban on nicotine pouches risks pushing smokers back to cigarettes
Finland’s plan to ban flavours in nicotine pouches risks driving smokers back to cigarettes, leading international health experts warn today. With a smoking rate of 15% – almost three times…
At 20, the WHO’s tobacco treaty is failing those who need it most
By Dr. Delon Human, Smoke Free Sweden — The World Health Organization (WHO) is commemorating the 20th anniversary of its Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) – a landmark treaty…
Bulgarian vape ban ‘would hinder the fight against smoking’
Wednesday 26 February – International health experts today condemned proposals in the Bulgarian Parliament to restrict access to safer nicotine alternatives and potentially ban disposable vapes entirely. Smoke Free Sweden…
Love Life: Embrace safer alternatives this Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, international health experts are sending a heartfelt message to people across the globe: Loving life means loving a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle. In honour of the season of…
Kenya risks prolonging smoking crisis by restricting safer alternatives, new report warns
Misguided restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes threaten to perpetuate the smoking crisis that kills 12,000 Kenyans annually, according to a major new report. The landmark study, Tale of Two…
Surge in illicit nicotine pouches underscores urgent need for regulated, safer alternatives
February 12, 2025 – A surge in sales of illicit nicotine products in the UK highlights the urgent need for adult smokers to have viable, safer alternatives that are both…
Tale of Two Nations: New analysis highlights New Zealand’s smoke-free progress vs. South Africa’s struggles
Thursday 06 February, Pretoria, South Africa – South Africa’s proposed new restrictions on safer alternatives to cigarettes will hold the country back in the fight against tobacco-related harm, according to a…
South Australia’s ban on nicotine pouches costing lives, says Smoke Free Sweden
STOCKHOLM – Leading health experts say South Australia’s nicotine pouch ban is another misguided step in Australia’s restrictive tobacco harm reduction policies—one that will cost thousands of lives. Smoke Free…
Smoke Free Sweden condemns Poland’s ‘perverse’ vape tax hike
WARSAW, Smoke Free Sweden today expressed serious concerns about Poland’s newly approved plan to tax nicotine pouches and vaping devices at rates akin to traditional cigarettes. The Council of Ministers…
US FDA approval of nicotine pouches is a landmark moment for Harm Reduction
STOCKHOLM – The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a major step forward in tobacco harm reduction by authorising the marketing of nicotine pouch products through its Premarket…
Open letters from Smoke Free Sweden to Swedish MPs and MEPs
Sweden’s commitment to tobacco harm reduction has saved lives and set a global benchmark for effective public health policy. However, maintaining this progress requires vigilance both at home and within…
Leading health experts applaud Swedish MPs for historic shift to tobacco harm reduction policy
STOCKHOLM, 9 January 2025 – Leading international health experts have praised Swedish MPs for their visionary decision to officially adopt a harm reduction-led approach to the nation’s tobacco and nicotine…
Swedes carry torch of hope into 2025, lighting the way to smoke-free future
STOCKHOLM, 1 January 2025 – As Swedes enter their first full year as officially smoke-free, leading international health experts are calling on other countries to follow their example and eradicate…
Safer alternatives to smoking can save nearly 700,000 lives in Chile, Ireland and Taiwan
STOCKHOLM, 10 December 2024 – Almost 700,000 lives would be saved in Ireland, Taiwan and Chile if those countries embraced safer alternatives to smoking, a ground-breaking new report reveals. The…
Mexico’s e-cigarette ban will put lives of smokers at risk, health experts warn
Stockholm, 9 December – Plans to ban the sale of e-cigarettes in Mexico could condemn thousands of smokers to a premature death, say leading international health experts. The proposed legislation,…
2 million lives could be saved by 2060 if Japan embraces tobacco harm reduction
STOCKHOLM, 2 December 2024 – Adopting comprehensive tobacco harm reduction (THR) strategies could save more than two million lives in Japan by 2060, according to a groundbreaking new report. The…
Sweden has shown EU the way to become smoke-free, international experts tell MEPs
STOCKHOLM, 28 November – Leading global health experts have sent a powerful letter to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), urging them to adopt a more pragmatic, evidence-based approach to…
New cancer statistics highlight need for tobacco harm reduction strategies
STOCKHOLM, 26 November – New figures showing there will be almost 300,000 new cancer cases in the UK by 2029 underscore the urgent need for more tobacco harm reduction (THR)…
Tobacco harm reduction strategy ‘will save 416,000 Nigerian lives’
STOCKHOLM, 22 November 2024 – More than 400,000 Nigerian lives could be saved if policymakers adopt a progressive approach to tobacco harm reduction (THR), according to landmark research by leading…
Tobacco harm reduction strategy ‘will save lives of 184,000 Kenyans’
Almost 200,000 Kenyan lives will be saved if policymakers adopt a more progressive approach to alternative nicotine products, according to ground-breaking new research by leading international health experts. A landmark…
BREAKING NEWS: Swedes first in world to become smoke free – it’s a lesson for the world
STOCKHOLM, 13 November 2024 – SENSATIONAL government figures released today show that Swedes have made history by becoming officially ‘smoke free’. Swedes have hit this remarkable milestone 16 years ahead…
EU’s outdated tobacco strategy is failing and costing lives
STOCKHOLM, 4 November 2024 – New analysis of data from the Europe Union’s leading research body reveals how the EU’s outdated tobacco control strategy is losing the war against smoking. …
Nicotine pouch ban will drive up France’s ‘deplorable’ smoking rate
STOCKHOLM, Friday 1st November– A ban on nicotine pouches in France will drive up the country’s deplorable smoking rates and put millions more lives at risk, according to international health…
Spain’s vape tax hike is dangerously misguided, say international health experts
31 October – Plans to impose excessive taxes on e-cigarettes in Spain could condemn thousands of Spanish smokers to a premature death, according to international health experts. Under new proposals,…
UK’s vape tax hike plan is misstep in fight against smoking
STOCKHOLM, 21 October – A plan to hike the tax on vapes in the UK risks undermining the country’s efforts to reduce smoking rates and would increase tobacco-related death and…
Going smoke free like Sweden will add years to your life, Lancet reveals
Stockholm, 8 October – New research from The Lancet reveals that going smoke free like Sweden would increase life expectancy around the world and prevent millions of premature deaths by…
Danish Pouch Restrictions Will Drive 150,000 Back to Smoking
STOCKHOLM, 7 October – Proposed restrictions on flavours, nicotine content and increased taxation of oral nicotine pouches, may lead to a de facto ban on nine out 10 nicotine pouches…
Ireland’s vape tax puts smokers’ lives at risk
STOCKHOLM, 4 October 2024 – Ireland’s new tax on e-cigarettes is a setback in the fight against tobacco, condemning thousands of smokers to unnecessary premature death, according to international health…
[Media]: Okdiario highlights Smoke Free Sweden
Leading Spanish publication Okdiario has cited Smoke Free Sweden’s No Smoke, Less Harm report, highlighting the impact that Sweden’s progressive approach to Tobacco Harm Reduction has had on bringing down smoking rates.…
BRAZIL’S PLAN TO LIFT VAPE BAN WILL SAVE MILLIONS OF LIVES
STOCKHOLM, 3 October 2024 – Brazil is “on the cusp of a public health miracle” as it prepares to legalise vapes in the ongoing war against smoking, according to international…
Ignoring tobacco harm reduction is a death sentence for millions, global experts tell UN
New York, 25 September 2024 — International health experts today warned that governments of the world are condemning millions to die if they continue to ignore the irrefutable benefits of…
Letter to UN General Assembly Delegates
Dear Sir/Madam, We stand at a critical juncture for global public health. While smoking-related illnesses continue to kill more than 8 million people annually, we now have the proven capability…
Tobacco Harm Reduction policies could save 280,000 lives in Czechia, according to new report
23 September, Prague – Improved Tobacco Harm Reduction measures, including better access to nicotine alternatives such as e-cigarettes, could save up to 280,000 lives in Czechia, according to a major…
NEW ZEALAND SHOWS THE WORLD HOW VAPES HELPED CUT ITS SMOKING RATE IN HALF
NEW YORK, Monday 23 September – LEADING international health expert Dr Marewa Glover today warned governments that millions of lives will be unnecessarily lost if policymakers fail to embrace the…
SWEDEN ‘WAY AHEAD’ AS EC SETS SMOKE-FREE 2040 GOAL
STOCKHOLM, Friday 20 September – LEADING international health experts today backed the European Commission’s call for a tobacco-free generation by 2040 while pointing out that Sweden has already cultivated multiple smoke-free…
CANADA’S NICOTINE POUCH BAN IS ‘DEADLY ERROR DEFYING SCIENCE’, SAY HEALTH EXPERTS
STOCKHOLM, 2 September – INTERNATIONAL health experts have criticised Canada’s new laws restricting the sale of nicotine pouches as a “deadly error” and “a backward step” in the global fight…
Tobacco harm Reduction policies would save 416,000 Malaysian lives, says new report
27 August, Stockholm – ADOPTION of tobacco harm reduction (THR) measures, including greater access to nicotine alternatives such as e-cigarettes, would help to save 416,000 lives in Malaysia, according to…
Tobacco harm reduction policies would save 464,000 lives in Uzbekistan, says new report
27 August, Stockholm – ADOPTION of tobacco harm reduction (THR) measures, including greater access to nicotine alternatives such as e-cigarettes, would help tosave 464,000 lives in Uzbekistan, according to major…
Swedish anti-smoking strategies offers solution for languishing EU smoking rates
20 August, Stockholm, Sweden – SMOKING rates across the EU have stagnated because of a lack of availability of smoke free nicotine alternatives, say international health experts, backed by new…
SOUTH AFRICA CAN SOLVE ITS SMOKING PROBLEM BY HEEDING NEW ZEALAND’S VAPE SUCCESS STORY
15 July 2024, Cape Town: Smoking is on the increase in South Africa due to misinformation and hostility towards vapes, while other nations are using these safer alternatives to win…
AUSTRALIA’S STRICT VAPING LAWS FUEL BLACK MARKET, STALL SMOKING DECLINE, REPORT REVEALS
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – July 11, 2024 – A new report from Smoke Free Sweden, a public health nonprofit, highlights the unintended consequences of Australia’s restrictive vaping policies. The report, “Quitting…
Malaysia’s Smoking Rates Stagnate as New Zealand Halves Smoking Through Vaping
8 July 2024, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — New Zealand’s approach to smoke free nicotine alternatives has halved smoking rates in just five years while Malaysia continues to have 5 million…
NEW ZEALAND HALVES SMOKING RATES WHILE INDONESIA STRUGGLES
04 July 2024, Jakarta, Indonesia: Indonesia’s progress on smoking rates has stagnated due to hostility, misinformation about vaping and high taxes, according to Smoke Free Sweden, while nations who have…
Media: Altinget – Time to smoke out nicotine’s bad reputation
Op-ed from Professor Karl Fagerström. [Read the full article here] Sweden’s experience of using alternative nicotine products to reduce smoking has shown an eye-opening paradox: despite similar levels of nicotine…
New Zealand halves smoking rate as smokers seek less harmful alternatives
12 June 2024, Warsaw, Poland – New Zealand’s smoking rate has halved in just five years due to the widespread acceptance and use of smoke free nicotine products, according to…
Urgent call for EU policymakers ahead of EU elections: replicate Smoke Free Sweden
6 June 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – On the eve of this year’s European elections, international health experts are rallying behind a call to action for MEP candidates and policymakers: incorporate…
WHO fails to recognise lifesaving qualities of smoke-free nicotine alternatives – Smoke Free Sweden
31 May 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – Leading global health experts have urged the WHO to use World No Tobacco Day to recognise the life saving potential of smoke-free nicotine alternatives. …
Media: Manila Standard: Sweden’s transition to smokeless products saves lives
[Read the article here] Sweden’s transition to smokeless tobacco products has brought down its smoking rate to the lowest in Europe, leading to a dramatic decline in tobacco-related deaths and…
Landmark report proves that high nicotine use does not lead to high rates of health issues
STOCKHOLM, 7 May 2024 – A new report released today in Stockholm by international health experts, “No Smoke, Less Harm” presents compelling evidence that despite similar levels of nicotine consumption,…
Smoke Free Sweden welcomes Moderate Party’s pledge to protect nicotine pouches
3 May 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – International harm reduction experts have commended a new pledge from Sweden’s Moderate Party to protect nicotine pouches ahead of the upcoming EU elections. As…
International health experts urge Spain to adopt Swedish anti-smoking strategies
Stockholm, 25 April – In a new public consultation submission, international health experts are calling on the Spanish government to emulate Sweden’s successful tobacco control strategies. As part of the…
International health experts condemn Canadian e-cigarette tax hike
22 April, Stockholm – International health experts have criticised the Canadian Ministry of Finance’s move to increase tax on e-cigarettes. Under the proposal, which was announced as part of the…
Swedish snus tax is a game changer in tobacco harm reduction policies
17 April, Stockholm – International harm reduction experts have commended the Swedish government for keeping to their promise and announcing a date for reducing tax on alternative nicotine products. Last…
Health experts criticise Spain’s new tobacco laws
12 April, Stockholm – International health experts have criticised the Spanish government’s new legislative proposal on vaping, which would equate e-cigarettes with traditional cigarettes. The new proposal, published this week,…
[Media] Smoke Free Sweden featured in the Wall Street Journal
In a new video report, the Wall Street Journal examines the growing use of nicotine pouches. Illustrating the impact that alternative products, such as as snus and nicotine pouches, has…
1.4 million lives could be saved if Brazil adopted Sweden’s smoke free strategy – new report
10 April 2024, Brasilia, Brazil – Almost 1.4 million Brazilian lives – equivalent to the population of Porto Alegre – could be saved if Brazil implemented Sweden’s ‘smoke free’ and…
Snus is key to lowering tobacco-related death rates, says health expert
The use of alternative products to cigarettes have been a key driver in bringing down Sweden’s smoking rates. Sweden is on the cusp of becoming the first EU country to…
Media: The Objective – ¿Se debe regular el tabaco igual que el cigarrillo electrónico? Inglaterra y Suecia tienen la clave
[Read the full article on The Objective] Las próximas semanas serán claves para el Plan Integral del Tabaquismo (PIT). Hasta el próximo 27 de marzo las comunidades autónomas podrán presentar alegaciones.…
International Health Experts Condemn Poland’s Approach to Tobacco Taxation
21 March 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – International health experts have criticised a new proposal from Poland’s Finance Ministry which would tax cigarettes and nicotine pouches at the same level despite…
Celebrating One Year of Smoke Free Sweden: Embracing Alternatives and Advocating for Change
As Smoke Free Sweden marks its one year anniversary, it’s a moment to recognise the remarkable achievements that have propelled the nation towards smoke free status. With Sweden boasting one…
Smoke Free Sweden marks one year of successful advocacy
14 March 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – Smoke Free Sweden today marked one year of existence and celebrated its achievement of global recognition for Sweden’s fight against smoking using reduced-risk alternatives.…
Nicotine Misinformation Is Threatening Lives In Central Asia
By Dr Delon Human ‘First do no harm’ is the most fundamental principle guiding healthcare professionals worldwide. It is disappointing therefore that health authorities across Central Asia are instituting policies…
Smoke Free Sweden calls on policymakers to fight vaping misinformation
Stockholm, 29 February – Smoke Free Sweden is urging policymakers to take action on vaping misinformation after new research found the majority of smokers in England wrongly believe vapes are…
Snus tax is a ‘trailblazer’ in global fight against smoking
Wednesday 21 February – Today’s move by Swedish lawmakers towards slashing the taxes on alternative nicotine products has been hailed by international harm reduction experts as a trailblazing example of…
COP10: A missed opportunity to save millions of lives
Stockholm, 14 February – Following the conclusion of the 10th Conference of the Parties on Tobacco Control (FCTC COP10) last weekend, leading global health experts have expressed disappointment over the…
Delon Human’s FCTC COP10 Insights – Day 5
Day 5 COP10 wrapped up on February 10th, with the member states mainly focusing on FCTC Article 18, concerning the protection of the environmental impact of combustible tobacco cultivation, manufacture,…
Delon Human’s FCTC COP10 Insights – Day 4
Day 4 After several days of delegations setting out their stalls, it was my hope that the parties to the FCTC would see sense and talk about the importance of…
Delon Human’s FCTC COP10 Insights – Day 3
Day 3 COP10 reached its halfway stage, with an interesting tension developing between two trends – some at COP10 arguing for more (unproven) extreme tobacco control measures, such as ‘denicotinisation’,…
Delon Human’s FCTC COP10 Insights – Day 2
Day 2 COP10 continued yesterday with the majority of WHO member states neglecting the known benefits of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR). As was the case on the first day of…
Delon Human’s FCTC COP10 Insights – Day 1
Day 1 COP10 started on Monday and a prevailing anti-nicotine sentiment underscored the discussions, overshadowing the known benefits of tobacco harm reduction (THR). This stance, while aimed at combating tobacco’s…
Experts emphasise the urgent need for Tobacco Harm Reduction at COP10
February 5, 2024, Stockholm, Sweden – With the EU unveiling its comprehensive cancer strategy and the 10th Conference of the Parties on Tobacco Control (FCTC COP10) beginning in Panama today,…
Why Sweden should be the focus at COP10
By Dr. Anders Milton Over the coming days, delegates from 183 countries will be making their final preparations for the Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the WHO Framework Convention…
COP10: A missed opportunity?
By Dr Delon Human, leader of the Smoke Free Sweden movement. As the global community gears up for the delayed 10th Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the WHO Framework…
Major New WHO Report Highlights Sweden’s Smoke Free Success
Stockholm, 16 January – A MAJOR new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights Sweden’s success in going smoke-free with the help of less harmful cigarette alternatives. The WHO…
Cochrane review echoes Swedish approach: less harmful alternatives, like vaping superior to other quit methods
Stockholm, 12 January – A new Cochrane review has found yet again that nicotine e-cigarettes are more effective in helping people quit smoking than conventional nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT). The Cochrane…
Health Advocates call on countries to make smoke free New Year’s resolution for 2024
Stockholm, 27th Dec – Smoke Free Sweden has launched a new digital campaign urging governments and politicians around the world to make a New Year’s resolution and help their country…
Health experts cheer the UK’s approach on tobacco taxation
Stockholm, 1st December – Leading health advocates have commended the UK’s progressive approach to taxing less harmful alternatives such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches in the Autumn Statement. Last week,…
COP10: a fresh opportunity to learn from Smoke Free Sweden
This week, COP10 should have taken place in Panama. While the conference has been postponed, the Smoke Free Sweden movement is calling on policymakers to take heed of the Swedish…
Experts recommend seizing the COP 10 delay as a catalyst for tobacco control innovation
Stockholm, 21 November – The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control must use the delays to its Tenth Conference of the Parties (COP10) to consider smoke-free success stories like that of Sweden,…
COP10: What if lives were saved?
This week, COP10 should have taken place. We’re taking the opportunity to look at what COP10 could have achieved if it embraced tobacco harm reduction. Sweden’s journey towards becoming the…
Media: Smoke Free Sweden continues to make headlines
The Smoke Free Sweden campaign is continuing to make waves around the world. On 7 November, several international outlets published a story on Sweden’s smoke-free achievements. The Telegraph (UK), El…
Swedish approach could be a game changer in tobacco harm reduction policies
Stockholm, 9 November – The Swedish approach to tobacco harm reduction could be a game changer for public health. The Institute of Tobacco Studies (ITS) in Sweden is calling for…
From Stockholm to COP10: Experts Allied in Their Quest for a Smoke-Free Society
2 November 2023, Stockholm, Sweden – The Smoke Free Sweden movement has set out policy recommendations for building a smoke-free society ahead of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control’s Tenth…
More than 2.5 million lives could be saved in four LMICs countries by adopting Sweden’s smoke-free strategy – major new report
LONDON, UK – A major new research study has revealed that adopting Sweden’s tobacco harm reduction (THR) strategies could save 2.6 million lives in four low and middle income countries.…
New Zealand study reveals access to alternative products is more effective than tax hikes when it comes to smoking cessation
Stockholm, 13 October – a new report from New Zealand has found that vaping has helped to accelerate the rate of smoking cessation in the country. According to the report,…
Why an EU-wide nicotine pouch ban could undermine public health
Stockholm, 9 October 2023 – In a baffling move that disregards data-driven public health strategies, the European Union is considering a full-scale ban on nicotine pouches. Smoke Free Sweden strongly…
[Media] Smoke Free Sweden featured on CNN Brasil
In a news report broadcast on 27 September, CNN Brasil examines the impact e-cigarettes has had in bringing down smoking levels in various countries. The piece highlights the success of…
Sunak must consider the Swedish approach to bringing down UK smoking rates
3 October 2023, Stockholm, Sweden – The UK must follow Sweden’s lead and continue to support alternatives to cigarettes to tackle smoking rates, leading public health advocates have said. UK…
[Media]: Leading French newspaper Les Echos spotlights Smoke Free Sweden
In its issue on 27 September 2023, Les Echos writes that Sweden has experienced a significant reduction in daily smoking rates, far below the European Union average, thanks in part…
Sweden Must Defend Smoke-Free Policies at the World Health Organisation
As the world awaits the upcoming World Health Organisation COP 10 conference, the Swedish government finds itself in a unique position to emphasise the significance of their approach towards achieving…
Health experts condemn backward ban on lifeline for smokers
LEADING international public health experts have expressed serious concern about Kazakhstan’s imminent ban on vapes as a “backward step” that contradicts the unprecedented success of more progressive countries which are…
Media: Expressen (SE) – The reduced snus tax is an unprecedented move
The reduction of the snus tax shows that the government does not see cigarettes and snus as equally dangerous. This is a unique shift. The Public Health Agency of Sweden…
Three million lives could have been saved by adopting Sweden’s smoke free strategy – major new report
WARSAW – THREE million more Europeans would be alive today if other countries had implemented Sweden’s ‘smoke free’ and tobacco harm reduction strategy, a new report being launched today will…
Media: Euronews – Smoke free Sweden: Why are Swedes stubbing out their cigarettes?
The Scandinavian country is a trailblazer when it comes to quitting smoking, but other forms of tobacco consumption are still popular. [Read the full article on Euronews] Sweden is on…
Media: O Globo – Tabagismo: como a Suécia está prestes a se tornar o 1º país da Europa livre do cigarro
A abordagem sueca combina métodos de controle do tabagismo com estratégias de minimização de danos, como os cigarros eletrônicos. [Read the article on O Globe] A Suécia está a caminho…
Sweden’s smoke-free success defies WHO statements on e-cigarettes, say experts
Stockholm, Sunday June 4, 2023 – Advocates for tobacco harm reduction have expressed “deep disappointment and alarm” over comments made about e-cigarettes by the World Health Organization (WHO) director general,…
MEPs to get first-hand look at the Swedish success story as country marks last World No Tobacco Day before becoming Smoke Free
Brussels, May 31 – On World No Tobacco Day, leading global health experts have delivered the landmark report “The Swedish Experience: A roadmap for a Smoke Free society” to key…
Especialistas defendem regulamentação de produtos alternativos ao cigarro no Brasil
Ações de redução de danos implementadas pela Suécia poderiam salvar 3,5 milhões de vidas Especialistas, profissionais da saúde e consumidores de várias partes do mundo se reuniram em São Paulo,…
Get South Africa quitting like Sweden to save smokers’ lives, experts urge Ramaphosa
LEADING international public health experts are urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to adopt the ‘Swedish way’ today (Friday) to secure a smoke-free South Africa and save the lives of millions of…
Press Release – QUIT LIKE SWEDEN TO SAVE MILLIONS OF SMOKERS’ LIVES, EXPERTS URGE SA LAWMAKERS
Johannesburg 1 May 2023 LEADING international public health experts have urged South African lawmakers to follow the pioneering example of ‘Smoke Free Sweden’ to save the lives of millions of…
Press Release – EU TPD Consultation: Will the EU follow the Swedish model?
April 25, 2023 – Stockholm – The authors of a landmark report on reducing the death toll from tobacco are urging the European Commission to adopt the successful strategies of…
Press Release – Free vapes scheme for UK smokers is a lifesaver, says global public health expert
Free vapes scheme for UK smokers is a lifesaver, says global public health expert A leading public health expert has welcomed the UK government’s decision to give free vapes to…
Media: La Razon – El sorprendente triunfo de la iniciativa sin humo en Suecia abre una vía que podría salvarle la vida a millones de personas, según un nuevo e importante informe [ES]
Un grupo de expertos en salud pública animan a los países de todo el mundo a seguir el ejemplo de Suecia. [READ THE ARTICLE ON LA RAZON] Un grupo…
Media: Sigmagazine – La Svezia diventa smoke free grazie agli strumenti di riduzione del danno [IT]
Il traguardo previsto per il 2023. Fondamentale l’apertura a prodotti a rischio ridotto come snus, sigaretta elettronica e nicotine pouches. [READ ARTICLE ON SIGMAGAZINE] È stato presentato questa mattina, in…
Media: Tobacco Reporter: Sweden Approaching ‘Smoke-Free’ Status
Smoking prevalence is poised to drop below 5 percent in the coming months in Sweden—a level that would make the country “smoke-free,” according to a commonly used definition. [Read article…
Media: Altinget – Följ den svenska modellen för att utrota rökningen [SE]
Sverige är på väg att göra något unikt, som inget annat land i EU är i närheten av. Nämligen att bli helt rökfritt. Att sluta röka som Sverige räddar liv.…
Media: Vaping Post – Sweden’s ‘Smoke-Free’ Status and The Successful Strategies Which Achieved it
In May 2017, Sweden was commended for reaching a smokefree status with its smoking rate dropping to 5%. Fast forward to 2023 and the rate has dropped further. [Read article…
Sweden’s Stunning Smoke Free Success Provides a Road Map That Could Save Lives of Millions – Major New Report
STOCKHOLM– 14 March 2023 (BUSINESS WIRE)–PUBLIC health experts launched a major new report to mark Sweden approaching the historic milestone of becoming Europe’s first ‘Smoke Free’ country. Sweden is on…