Nicotine and health
Research and reporting on nicotine’s effects, dependence and health claims. Distinguish nicotine-specific findings from evidence about smoke, tobacco or particular delivery products, and consider the limits of each study.
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Heart harm claims from study of just 17 vapers challenged by experts
Experts question whether a small study of 17 vapers can support claims about vaping’s effects on the heart.
Smokers still getting the wrong message on vaping risks, English data shows
New English survey data highlights a persistent gap between smokers’ understanding of vaping risks and the evidence on harm and quitting.
Smoking among young Swiss people falls by almost a quarter in two years
The proportion of young people smoking in Switzerland fell by almost a quarter between 2023 and 2025, while monthly vaping remained broadly stable.
Vaping cancer claims challenged by limits of laboratory study
A laboratory study found cancer-like changes in lung cells exposed to vaping extract, but its findings do not establish that vaping causes cancer in people.
New Zealand smokers turn to nicotine pouches despite sales ban
Nicotine pouch use has risen among smokers surveyed in New Zealand, with some using the products to quit cigarettes or cut down despite restrictions on sales.
INVESTIGATION: Who’s behind the anti-nicotine propaganda?
Pharmaceutical companies selling costly treatments for smoking-related diseases also fund organisations campaigning for tighter restrictions on safer nicotine products. Peter examines whether those relationships deserve closer scrutiny.
Researchers challenge Irish PM’s claim that vapes are ‘nearly worse’ than cigarettes
Researchers have challenged Irish prime minister Micheál Martin’s claim that vapes are “nearly worse” than cigarettes, pointing to evidence that vaping exposes users to fewer harmful substances than smoking.
Major review finds nicotine pouches considerably less toxic than cigarettes
Nicotine pouches are considerably less toxic than cigarettes and could offer smokers a less hazardous alternative, a major review has found.
