Articles tagged with Tobacco
A new study found that British American Tobacco used a multi-pronged strategy to undermine China's secondhand smoke policy. BAT funded the Beijing Liver Foundation and promoted ineffective ventilation systems, diverting attention from SHS issues. Researchers call for policymakers and media to be aware of these tactics.
A new study reveals that a Philip Morris scientist established close connections with the Chulabhorn Research Institute in Thailand, which is designated as a WHO Collaborating Centre. This link raises concerns about the tobacco industry's ability to influence medical research and teaching at an academic institution allied with the WHO.
The American Cancer Society announced the winners of the 2009 Luther L. Terry Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in tobacco control worldwide. The awards were presented to six individuals and organizations for their contributions to tobacco control, including researchers, policymakers, and advocates.
Women exposed to secondhand smoke as adults or children are more likely to face fertility problems and suffer miscarriages, with a 68% increased chance of difficulty getting pregnant. The study analyzed data from over 4,800 non-smoking women and found that four out of five reported exposure to secondhand smoke during their lifetime.
Researchers found higher degrees of hyperactivity, aggression, and depression among boys with asthma exposed to environmental tobacco smoke. Even low levels of tobacco smoke were detrimental to behavior, with a two-fold increase in behavioral problems for every doubling in exposure.
A novel mist bioreactor system enables the efficient production of murine interleukin-12 in genetically modified tobacco plants. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new therapies for diseases such as Crohn's, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
According to a recent report, cancer incidence and mortality have declined in the US for the first time among both men and women. The decline is attributed to decreases in the most common cancers, including prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
The report reveals declines in cancer incidence and death rates across the US, with some states experiencing significant variations in lung cancer trends. These findings underscore the need to strengthen tobacco control programs and accelerate efforts to prevent or reduce the occurrence of kidney and liver cancers.
Researchers at Scripps Florida found that blocking hypocretin-1 receptors significantly decreased nicotine self-administration and motivation in rats, suggesting a potential target for developing new smoking cessation treatments. The study highlights the importance of hypocretin-1 receptors in regulating nicotine reward and motivation.
A study of smokers with attention deficit and hyperactivity symptoms found those with elevated hyperactivity and impulsivity showed lower quit rates compared to those with inattention or no A.D.H.D. symptoms.
A new study reveals proposed FDA regulation fails to address migrant worker suffering, smoking prevalence, or outsourcing of leaf production. The regulation may favor big tobacco by reducing liability and sustaining global operations.
A recent study by JAMA Network found that households with adult smokers have lower rates of daily healthy food access compared to non-smoking households. This association is particularly concerning in low-income families, where food insecurity rates are already high.
Nicotine dependence severity has increased by 12% between 1989 and 2006, with the proportion of people classified as highly nicotine dependent rising 32%. More individualized tobacco-dependent treatments are needed to address this increase in addiction severity.
Researchers found that patients with bipolar disorder have a poorer quality of life than the general population, with factors such as early onset, long-term illness, and tobacco dependence contributing to this effect. In contrast, social support from family can improve quality of life.
Research shows US military personnel deployed to Iraq have a significantly higher tobacco abuse rate than the national average. Meanwhile, New York residents who smoke are experiencing the effects of the state's tobacco reduction strategies. Additionally, studies link smoking to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in men.
A recent study found that 87% of physicians receive less than 5 hours of training on tobacco dependence, and only 6% know Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality guidelines. This lack of knowledge may contribute to low quit rates among smokers, who are more likely to succeed with provider assistance.
Young people with ADHD are more likely to become dependent on nicotine and experience environmental factors that increase their risk of smoking. The study found that individuals with more ADHD-related symptoms were at greater risk of nicotine dependence than those with fewer symptoms.
A recent study published in Addiction Journal found that abstaining smokers who find the smell of other people's cigarettes pleasant are not more likely to relapse than those with a neutral reaction. The researchers concluded that finding cigarette smoke pleasant does not predict relapse.
Intensive support programs can significantly improve patients' ability to stay smoke-free, with follow-up assistance required for long-term success. Hospitals that offer these programs with extended counseling and post-discharge support see a higher quit rate among smokers.
People with psychiatric disabilities in Australia smoke at four times the rate of the general population, despite efforts to reduce smoking rates. More than six in ten smokers with mental illness consumed over 22 cigarettes a day.
Researchers found that women who smoked fewer pack years had a higher risk of developing significant colorectal neoplasia. Smoking also increased the risk of pancreatic cancer precursor lesions in at-risk patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer.
Research reveals tobacco companies paid top Hollywood stars millions in endorsement deals, contributing to the persistent presence of on-screen smoking in mainstream films. Almost 200 actors took part in cigarette endorsements between 1927 and 1951.
Researchers discovered financial contracts between tobacco companies and Hollywood stars, revealing a commercial link between the two industries. The study found that studios controlled their stars' agreements and timed ads to promote specific cigarette brands.
A combination regimen of cardiovascular drugs could avert almost 18 million deaths in 23 low-income countries for $1.10 per person. Integration of primary care approaches with public policies is crucial for effective management of chronic diseases.
Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that only a few mutations in an enzyme can shift the output of plant compounds, allowing them to adapt to changing environments. This finding has implications for developing environmentally friendly fungicides and pesticides, as well as new flavors and fragrances.
Researchers found that flowers with nicotine and benzyl acetone attract pollinators, increasing seed production. Plants with these chemicals had higher cross-pollination rates than those without, optimizing outcrossing.
A study by researchers at UCSF found that California's state tobacco control program saved $86 billion in personal healthcare costs over 15 years. The program prevented 3.6 billion packs of cigarettes from being smoked, resulting in significant health cost reductions.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that tobacco control programs in California reduced personal health care expenditures by $86 billion between 1989 and 2004. The program's cost savings grew over time, reaching 7.3% in 2003-2004, and represented a significant return on investment for the state.
A new report by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the University of Minnesota links tobacco industry marketing to increased youth smoking, concluding that such marketing causes young people to begin smoking. The report recommends effective strategies to prevent further increase in youth smoking.
Researchers found that Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can block the lung's natural protective response to tobacco smoke, leading to increased oxidative stress and tissue damage. This co-factor may contribute to the development of COPD among smokers.
A previously unrecognized group of air pollutants has been discovered that can cause life-threatening conditions similar to those found in tobacco smoke. Inhaling these pollutants exposes individuals to potentially lethal amounts of free radicals, with the average person inhaling 300 times more daily than from smoking one cigarette.
Researchers found a deliberate strategy by tobacco companies to recruit and addict young smokers with milder menthol products. The study analyzed internal documents, lab tests, and survey data, revealing that menthol brands with lower levels appealed to younger smokers.
Researchers found Alaskan Eskimo adults had higher rates of fatty artery plaque than the general US population due to unhealthy lifestyle habits. The study suggests that traditional heart-healthy diet and exercise may not be enough to counteract the effects of smoking.
Research finds that smokeless tobacco products carry a lower cancer risk compared to smoking, particularly for oral and oesophageal cancers. However, users are still at increased risk of other types of cancer, such as lung cancer, especially in countries with high STP use.
Researchers are developing a nicotine vaccine to stimulate the immune system's response against nicotine, while also examining the effectiveness of combination therapies and counseling in treating nicotine addiction. Effective treatments are crucial to match individual patients' needs.
A recent study found that while US cigarette smoking has declined, non-cigarette tobacco product sales have increased, offsetting the decline. The main reason for this shift is price, with lower federal and state taxes on non-cigarette products making them more affordable.
Research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute reveals that smokers with stage III colon cancer have a 22% increased risk of recurrence or death compared to never-smokers. A 20+ pack year smoking history before age 30 was found to be particularly harmful, increasing the risk by 37%
Research shows tobacco promotions were extensive in Ontario stores, with chain convenience stores having large displays and signs advertising tobacco. The study found that tobacco promotions were higher among stores close to schools and in low-income neighbourhoods.
Researchers found that endoscopic ultrasound improves patient outcomes after diagnosis with pancreatic cancer. Heavy smoking and drinking are linked to an earlier onset of the disease, with beer being the strongest contributor.
A study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers found that approximately 43% of college students have smoked tobacco using a waterpipe in the past year. Waterpipe smoking is perceived as less harmful than cigarette smoking, but exposes users to similar toxins and nicotine.
A study by UT researchers found a strong dose-response relationship between exposure to tobacco advertising and promotions and tobacco use among Indian youth. The study revealed that 37% of youth had seen tobacco advertising in more than four places, with those exposed being more likely to have ever used or be currently using tobacco.
Cancer survivors who practice healthy habits such as avoiding tobacco, eating more fruits and vegetables, and getting adequate exercise tend to have higher health-related quality of life scores. However, many survivors are not meeting physical activity recommendations or the '5-A-Day' fruit and vegetable consumption recommendation.
A new study from the American Cancer Society finds racial disparities in smoking cessation treatment, with black and Hispanic smokers less likely to receive advice and aids. The study also reveals that men and those without a usual source of medical care are less likely to be screened for tobacco use and receive advice to quit.
A study using MRI scans found that prenatal exposure to these substances can reduce cortical gray matter and total brain volumes. The effects were additive, with more substances leading to greater reductions in brain volume. Health care providers should offer comprehensive care to pregnant women to help reduce psychoactive substance use.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a method to silence a gene that turns nicotine into a carcinogen, resulting in a six-fold decrease in N-nitrosonornicotine and a 50% overall reduction in TSNAs. This breakthrough could lead to tobacco products with reduced amounts of cancer-causing agents.
Researchers found that tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure among pregnant women pose significant threats to maternal and child health. In some countries, rates of tobacco-related exposures are already high enough to warrant substantial concern.
India is experiencing a devastating tobacco-related disease crisis, with approximately 1 million deaths expected each year from 2010 to 2019. The study reveals that smoking causes nearly one in five male deaths and one in twenty female deaths at ages 30-69.
A study by María Luisa Jiménez Rodrigo explores the reasons behind women's rising cigarette consumption in Spanish society over the past 50 years. Women use cigarettes as a tool for stress relief, social interaction, and to control appetite and body weight, reinforcing traditional feminine norms.
Heavy cannabis users, especially those who smoke it almost weekly, are at higher risk of mild and severe gum disease. The study suggests that reducing cannabis use may also help reduce the prevalence of gum disease.
Regular marijuana use in young adulthood is associated with a higher risk of developing periodontal disease, according to the study. Cannabis exposure groups showed significant increases in periodontal attachment loss and new attachment loss compared to non-users.
References to explicit substance use are common in popular music, particularly in genres like hip-hop and rap. The behavior is often motivated by peer pressure or sex, with highly positive consequences portrayed in most songs.
Since the Soviet collapse, Russian women's smoking rates have more than doubled, with men's rates also increasing. The researchers blame privatization of the tobacco industry and industry lobbying for this alarming trend. The study used data from over 7,000 individuals, showing that the least educated are disproportionately affected.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that marijuana withdrawal is similar to tobacco withdrawal, with common symptoms like irritability and trouble sleeping. The research suggests that clinicians treating marijuana addiction should consider these effects in their practice.
The tobacco industry has formed a global network of manufacturing associations to challenge local tobacco control measures and promote smoking. The International Committee on Smoking Issues (ICOSI) played a key role in this strategy, with documents revealing strategies to undermine public health efforts.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found an association between domestic violence and adult smoking among Indian women. The study suggests that domestic violence may act as a 'stress reliever' in households where it occurs, leading to increased tobacco use.
Reducing salt intake by 15% and implementing WHO's tobacco control framework could avert 8.5 million deaths between 2006-2015. Tobacco control measures alone would reduce smoking prevalence by 20.8%, thereby averting 5.5 million deaths.
College freshmen show heightened cigarette use in early weeks of school, followed by decline, with most smoking on Fridays and Saturdays. Adolescents with ADHD are also found to be at high risk for smoking due to brain dysfunction and nicotine dependence.
A recent study by the University of Bath found that smokers from poorer areas are using NHS stop smoking services and successfully quitting at a higher rate than those from more affluent communities. The overall proportion of smokers from disadvantaged areas accessing these services is also higher, suggesting that the NHS stop smoking ...
Two studies show that increasing Quitline services and offering free nicotine patches significantly increase quit rates, with over 21% of smokers quitting after intensive counseling. The added cost is offset by increased effectiveness, making these services a cost-effective way to reduce smoking rates.
A Canadian study reveals tobacco marketers are targeting teens near high schools by marketing in retail shops, often located near schools with high smoking prevalence. The study found that these stores offered lower prices, more promotions, and fewer health warnings, creating an environment that promotes student smoking.