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WHO urges cancer warnings on alcohol labels to raise awareness
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for mandatory health warnings on alcohol packaging to highlight the link between drinking and cancer. It argues that prominent labels, similar to those on cigarettes, would help consumers make informed choices and reduce alcohol-related harm.
Cancer charities have welcomed the proposal, emphasising that awareness of alcohol’s role in causing seven types of cancer remains low. Some countries are already introducing similar measures, Ireland will become the first country to include a specific reference to cancer. The Portman Group, which represents UK alcohol producers, has called health warnings disproportionate, arguing that while they “do not dispute the link between alcohol and cancer”, warnings may cause anxiety amongst consumers.
The UK government has no plans to implement the policy, focusing instead on treatment and prevention strategies.
Source: The Guardian, 14 February 2025
See also: ASH, AHA and OHA Killer Tactics report:How tobacco, alcohol, and
unhealthy food and drink industries hold back public health progress
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Study explores impact of vaping on gum health
A systematic review examined the effects of e-cigarette use on gum health, comparing vapers with non-smokers, former smokers, and tobacco users. While smoking was consistently linked to the worst outcomes for gum health, vaping was linked to increased plaque levels and inflammatory markers, raising concerns about potential risks. However, vaping did not show significant differences from non-smokers on deeper markers of gum health such as bone health.
The review found that nicotine could mask gum disease symptoms by reducing bleeding, potentially delaying diagnosis. However, the absence of biochemical confirmation of smoking history in most studies weakened the findings. Researchers concluded that while vapers generally had better gum health than smokers, further high-quality studies are needed.
Source: News Medical, 16 February 2025
See also: Tattar, R. et al. The impact of e-cigarette use on periodontal health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Dentistry, 2025.
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NHS administrative failures cause frustration for patients
A new report has highlighted widespread issues with NHS administration in England, with nearly two-thirds of users facing problems related to communication and organisation. Patients frequently struggle with delayed or missing test results, difficulties managing appointments, and uncertainty over treatment timelines, causing stress and frustration.
The research, conducted by Healthwatch England, National Voices, and the King’s Fund, found that those with chronic conditions and disadvantaged groups were disproportionately affected. Experts attribute these challenges to an overstretched system reliant on outdated processes. The findings underscore the urgent need for administrative reforms to improve patient experience and restore trust in NHS services.
Source: The Guardian, 17 February 2025
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BAT chief could become one of UK's highest-paid executives under new pay scheme
The head of British American Tobacco (BAT), Tadeu Marroco, could receive a pay package worth up to £18.2 million under a revised incentive plan, making him one of the highest-earning executives in the UK. To achieve the maximum payout, BAT’s share price would need to rise by 50%.
Source: The Times, 16 February 2025
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JTI expects increased shift towards cheaper cigarette brands in the US
Japan Tobacco International (JTI) predicts that lower-cost cigarette brands will account for over 40% of the US market by 2027, as consumers continue to move away from premium brands due to rising prices and economic pressures. While industry leaders such as Altria and British American Tobacco (BAT) have relied on price increases to offset declining smoking rates, both companies have seen a decline in sales volumes.
Source: Daily Mail, 14 February 2025
Editorial note: The tobacco industry has a track record of manipulating cigarette prices to undermine the impact of tax rises and ensure the availability of cheap cigarettes. For example, PMI was accused of absorbing tax rises on cheaper cigarettes to sustain smoking rates earlier this year. See Tobacco Tactics’ page on pricing strategies.
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ASH Daily News is a digest of published news on smoking-related topics. ASH is not responsible for the content of external websites. ASH does not necessarily endorse the material contained in this bulletin.
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