Has All the Risk Gone In a Puff of Smoke?

Nicotine pouches are an alternative to vaping as a supposedly 'safe' means taking tobacco products. In deed, British American Tobacco UK suggests, that by 2026, the UK may have more than 2 million regular users of nicotine pouches. Journalist, Imogen West-Knights recounts her experience of vomiting after using a pouch on a train journey. She tried that item, because she couldn't legally use her vape on the journey (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/aug/23/nicotine-tobacco-vaping-smoking-addiction). West-Knights confirms, that nicotine is 'mind-warpingly addictive'. She concludes hesitantly, however, that nicotine addiction should be none of the government's business. West-Knights largely bases her conclusion on the UK's National Health Service Quit Smoking website. It says "Although nicotine is addictive, it is relatively harmless to health". One must focus on the word "relatively". Unlike cigarette-smoking, nicotine pouches and vaping are unlikely to give you lung cancer. It's the tar and particulates, in cigarette smoke, that damage the lungs. Particulates, from vehicle exhausts and wood fires (forest fires and upmarket wood-burning stoves), have also been linked to respiratory diseases and deaths. The NHS website is, however, simply designed to encourage addicted cigarette smokers, to switch to a less damaging means of getting their nicotine fix. One cannot conclude that nicotine is addictive but 'safe'. Long-term exposure of the gums by users of nicotine pouches, may well turn out to be associated with health problems. Vaping, especially by children, for extended periods, seems likely to have influences on mental health. An addictive compound with no influence on psychology, would be unique. Detailed, chronic studies have simply not yet been carried out. Tobacco companies are predictably keen on any product that boosts their profits. Having a highly addictive compound, makes repeat sales easier. These issues, should clearly makes it the business of health professionals and responsible government.