What's Happening?
A study conducted by University College London has revealed that young men are the primary demographic driving the increasing popularity of nicotine pouches in Great Britain. The research indicates that approximately 7.5% of men aged 16 to 24 are using
these pouches, compared to 1.9% of young women and 1% of adults overall. The study suggests that most users also smoke or vape, and some are using the pouches as a means to quit smoking. The pouches, which contain synthetic nicotine, are marketed aggressively towards young men through platforms like Formula 1 sponsorships and music festivals. The study, published in Lancet Public Health, surveyed 127,000 people across England, Scotland, and Wales from 2020 to 2025.
Why It's Important?
The rise in nicotine pouch use among young men highlights a significant shift in tobacco product consumption, potentially impacting public health strategies. While these pouches are marketed as a less harmful alternative to smoking, they still pose cardiovascular risks due to high nicotine content. The study's findings could influence future regulations, as legislation is being considered to restrict sales to minors and regulate advertising. Understanding the demographic trends and marketing strategies can help policymakers balance discouraging youth uptake while not pushing users back to more harmful products like cigarettes.
What's Next?
Legislation known as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently under consideration, which aims to ban the sale of nicotine pouches to individuals under 18 and impose restrictions on advertising and product content. This regulatory approach seeks to mitigate the potential health risks associated with nicotine pouches while exploring their role in smoking cessation. The outcome of this legislation could set a precedent for how similar products are regulated in other regions.
