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Current Abstracts — July 2026
Monthly tobacco research digest  ·  Ontario Tobacco Research Unit
108
Articles
10
Reviews
7
Canadian
69
Open Access
17
In the News
📰 In the News — covered by news or Reddit🔓 Open Access — free full text🍁 Canadian — Canadian author or institutionSR — systematic review / meta-analysis
Generated 2026-07-28  · 
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🔥 Hot TopicIn the NewsReviews🍁 CanadianAll ArticlesNews Articles
🔥 Hot Topic
Combustible Cigarette Smoking, Electronic Cigarette Use, and Metabolic Syndrome in a Working Population.
Cano Astrid Lorena Urbano, Alvarez Rosero Rosa Elvira, Portuguez Jaramillo Nelson Esteban et al.. Epidemiologia (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul.
# Spotlight Summary

Combustible cigarette smoking and electronic cigarette use are both associated with metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol that significantly increases risk for heart disease and diabetes. This cross-sectional study of workers in southwestern Colombia provides important evidence that tobacco exposure, whether through traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes, poses cardiometabolic risks in occupational populations where such data have been scarce. The findings suggest that workplace health interventions should address multiple forms of tobacco use, not just combustible cigarettes, to protect worker cardiovascular health. Understanding these associations in working-age populations is critical for developing targeted prevention and cessation strategies in occupational health settings.

Media Coverage

Business Insider: Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will n…Israelnationalnews.com: Health Ministry: Millions suffer at home from neighbors' smo…Dailymail.com: Vaping can leave you just as breathless and unfit as smoking…

In the News 17

Research articles from this digest that have been covered by news media or discussed on Reddit.

▶ Browse 17 media-covered articles
Evaluating the Impact of Little Cigar Use on the Oral Bacterial Microbiota of Cigarette Smokers.
Chattopadhyay Suhana, Malayil Leena, Mongodin Emmanuel F et al.. Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/pathogens15070732
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers investigated how little cigar use affects the bacterial communities in the mouth of people who already smoke cigarettes. The study examined immediate changes in oral microbiota after little cigar use, since tobacco products contain diverse bacteria and long-term tobacco use is known to alter the oral microbiome in ways that can lead to oral disease.
News: The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They…
News: E-cigarette Regulatory Gaps and Substance Use Recovery
Research Progress on Nicotine Control Methods in Tobacco Products.
Xu Xu, Song Haoxuan, Chen Shuaiyu et al.. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/molecules31142465
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers reviewed various methods to control nicotine levels in tobacco products, examining both internal approaches (modifying tobacco components like acids, pH, moisture, and polyols) and external strategies. These nicotine control methods represent potential regulatory tools that could reduce the addictiveness of combustible tobacco products and support public health goals.
News: The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They…
Effects of Flammable and Non-Flammable Nicotine Products on Kidney Health.
Carollo Caterina, Sorce Alessandra, Cirafici Emanuele et al.. Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medsci14030386
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how flammable cigarettes and non-flammable nicotine products (such as e-cigarettes) affect kidney health. The study contributes to understanding the broader health impacts of different nicotine delivery methods beyond traditional smoking-related diseases.
News: FDA Sued for Allowing Unauthorized Vaping Products
A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of State Flavored E-Cigarette Policy Implementation and E-Cigarette Use.
Kephart Lindsay, Chadwick Ginny, Stover Maeve et al.. American journal of preventive medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2026.108523
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used qualitative comparative analysis to examine how different U.S. state policies restricting flavored e-cigarette sales were designed and enforced, and how these differences affected e-cigarette use patterns. The study highlights that flavored e-cigarettes are a major driver of youth and young adult use, and suggests that policy effectiveness in reducing this use may depend on specific policy design features and implementation strength rather than the presence of restrictions alone.
News: Public Health Groups, Pediatricians and Parents Sue FDA Over Policy Allowing the…
Association between adolescent alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking with adult risk of breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Hosseini Fatemeh, Amin Negin, Dasari Pallave et al.. Preventive medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.ypmed.2026.108640
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether smoking and alcohol use during adolescence—a critical period of breast tissue development—increases breast cancer risk in adulthood. The research synthesizes existing evidence to clarify the long-term cancer implications of early-life tobacco and alcohol exposure in women.
News: Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will never make cigarettes…
Ultrasonographic and elastographic findings of the liver of dogs exposed to cigarette smoke.
Gomes Felipe Gasparini Echem, Stanquini Camila Silveira, Feliciano Giovanna Serpa Maciel et al.. Brazilian journal of veterinary medicine. 2026. doi:10.1016/0887-2171(95)90011-X
Summary
Researchers used ultrasound and elastography imaging to examine liver damage in dogs exposed to secondhand cigarette smoke, building evidence that passive smoke exposure harms organs beyond the lungs. The findings in animals support concerns about health risks to non-smokers, including pets, who share living spaces with smokers.
News: Health Ministry: Millions suffer at home from neighbors' smoking
FDA authorisation of Zyn nicotine pouches: cross-sectional analysis of public discourse on X.
Shanazari Eric, Whaley Reid C, Unger Jennifer B et al.. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2026-060176
Summary
Following the FDA's January 2025 authorization of Zyn nicotine pouches, researchers analyzed public conversations on X (formerly Twitter) to understand how people were discussing this new product category. The study examined public discourse to identify how social media discussion may shape public perceptions about the safety and use of these newly authorized nicotine products.
News: Public Health Groups, Pediatricians and Parents Sue FDA Over Policy Allowing the…
Combustible Cigarette Smoking, Electronic Cigarette Use, and Metabolic Syndrome in a Working Population.
Cano Astrid Lorena Urbano, Alvarez Rosero Rosa Elvira, Portuguez Jaramillo Nelson Esteban et al.. Epidemiologia (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/nu15092105
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined the relationship between combustible cigarette smoking, electronic cigarette use, and metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol that increase cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk. This study provides evidence on how different forms of tobacco exposure may contribute to metabolic dysfunction in working adults.
News: Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will never make cigarettes…
News: Health Ministry: Millions suffer at home from neighbors' smoking
News: Vaping can leave you just as breathless and unfit as smoking does – especially i…
Cannabis vaping and tobacco quit intentions, quit attempts, and symptoms of nicotine dependence among youth in the United States.
Simpson Valerie L, Levy Taylor, Esquenazi-Karonika Shari et al.. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2026.113268
Summary
Researchers examined how cannabis vaping among U.S. youth relates to tobacco cessation outcomes, including quit intentions, quit attempts, and nicotine dependence symptoms. The study used nationally representative data to understand the relationship between concurrent cannabis and tobacco use, which is common among youth but poorly understood in terms of its impact on tobacco cessation efforts.
News: The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They…
The Effect of Combustible Tobacco Tax Changes on Smoking Behaviours Among Young Adults: A Systematic Review.
Alblooshi Manal, Goh Ruth, Feliu Ariadna et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag164
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This systematic review examined how changes in combustible tobacco taxes affect smoking behaviours among young adults. The findings contribute to the evidence base on whether tax increases are effective policy tools for reducing tobacco use in this age group, which has important implications for public health strategies aimed at preventing smoking initiation and promoting cessation among younger populations.
News: Nicotine pouches, tobacco's latest ploy
Perceived Tobacco Smoking Risk and Predictors of Smoking During Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Predictive Correlational Study.
Gulley Teresa, Hammer Denise, Kim MyoungJin et al.. Maternal and child health journal. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107854
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined which factors predict whether pregnant women continue to smoke, including their perception of smoking risks, emotional attachment to their fetus, and stress levels. Understanding these psychological and emotional factors can help identify pregnant women at higher risk of continued smoking and inform targeted cessation interventions during pregnancy.
News: The Download: a smoking “endgame” and a new Elizabeth Bear story
News: A generational smoking ban looks to be on the cards for Ireland – but will it wo…
Smoking reshapes systemic metabolic coordination across lung cancer subtypes: a multicenter total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT study with tumor habitat imaging.
Wang Haiyan, Wu Yaping, Duan Yanhua et al.. European journal of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1001/jama.2011.334
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used advanced imaging technology (PET/CT scans) to examine how smoking affects the body's metabolism in 125 lung cancer patients across different cancer types. The study found that smoking causes widespread changes in how the body's systems work together metabolically, with these effects varying depending on the type of lung cancer, suggesting that smoking's impact on lung cancer extends beyond just the lungs to affect whole-body health.
News: Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will never make cigarettes…
News: Heavy marijuana smoking may increase cancer risk, researchers warn
News: A 44-year-old mom felt out of breath while talking. It turns out she had stage 4…
Associations between metabolomic signatures of persistent smoking effects and lung cancer risk among former smokers.
Le Duc Huy, Cai Hui, Yu Danxia et al.. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-25-2011
Summary
Researchers identified a metabolite signature that reflects persistent metabolic changes from smoking that continue even after people quit smoking. Among former smokers, this metabolic signature was associated with increased lung cancer risk, suggesting that smoking leaves lasting biological changes that may elevate cancer risk long after cessation.
News: Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will never make cigarettes…
News: Heavy marijuana smoking may increase cancer risk, researchers warn
News: A 44-year-old mom felt out of breath while talking. It turns out she had stage 4…
Beyond Acculturation: Ethnic Identity, Tobacco and Nicotine Product Use, and Health Among Arab Americans.
Alnahari Sarah, Durazo Arturo, Brown Paul et al.. Tobacco use insights. 2026. doi:10.1007/s11739-025-03873-y
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Arab Americans experience elevated tobacco and nicotine product use rates but remain underrepresented in national tobacco surveillance and prevention efforts due to being classified as "White" in standard data collection systems. This research highlights how ethnic identity and acculturation patterns influence tobacco use among this fast-growing immigrant population, pointing to significant gaps in understanding and addressing tobacco-related health disparities in this community.
News: The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They…
News: FDA Sued for Allowing Unauthorized Vaping Products
Association between smoking and vaping behaviors and self-perceived voice handicap in young medical trainees.
Alrawashdeh Baeth, Abu Nassar Ruby, Shlash Obadah et al.. European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1242/dmm.049476
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined the relationship between smoking (cigarettes and shisha) and vaping with voice problems among medical trainees in Jordan. The study found associations between these tobacco and nicotine use behaviors and self-reported voice handicap, suggesting potential voice-related health effects from both traditional and electronic nicotine products among young adults.
News: Vaping on decline as young Australians shift to other nicotine products
News: Vaping can leave you just as breathless and unfit as smoking does – especially i…
Correlates of oral nicotine pouch use, use frequency and flavour use among US adults.
He Yanyun, Roberts Megan E, Li Dongmei et al.. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2025-059971
Summary
This study examined who uses oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) and how they are being used among a nationally representative sample of US adults. The research identified tobacco use patterns and demographic characteristics associated with ONP use, use frequency, and flavour preferences to fill a gap in understanding this emerging nicotine product category.
News: Nicotine pouches, tobacco's latest ploy
Philip Morris International's youth-appealing 'Curiosity' IQOS advertising campaign.
Yin Tsai-Han, Jackler Robert K. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2025-059949
Summary
Philip Morris International's 'Curiosity' campaign for IQOS heated tobacco products, launched in 2024, uses youth-appealing marketing strategies to promote the devices as fashionable lifestyle products and purportedly safer alternatives to cigarettes. This advertising approach raises public health concerns about the potential to attract young people to a nicotine-containing product despite claims of reduced harm.
News: Philip Morris claims FDA nod to market ZYN nicotine pouch as safer than smoking
Reviews & Meta-Analyses 10
▶ Browse 10 reviews
Cessation—Behavioural Interventions
Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for smoking cessation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Okawa Yohei. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.4103/2319-5932.195845
Summary
A systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for helping people quit smoking by addressing the thinking patterns and behaviors that maintain smoking addiction. CBT is a psychological approach that targets the cognitive, behavioral, and relapse-related mechanisms underlying tobacco dependence.
E-cigarettes—Co-use
Patterns and implications of co-use between vaping and hallucinogens: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Heshmati Javad, Grover Krystal, Mahmoodianfard Salma et al.. Addictive behaviors. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108803
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the co-use of e-cigarettes and hallucinogens, which appears to be increasing among youth and young adults. The review synthesizes evidence on the association between vaping and hallucinogen use to better understand patterns and implications of this concurrent substance use behavior.
E-cigarettes—Health Effects
Beyond the WHO Priority Toxicants: A Systematic Review of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents in IQOS Aerosols.
Matei Roxana Ioana, Baroi Anda Maria, Fistos Toma et al.. Toxics. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/toxics14070614
Summary
A systematic review examined harmful and potentially harmful chemicals in IQOS heated tobacco product aerosols, looking beyond the WHO's priority list of toxicants. While IQOS aerosols generally contain lower levels of harmful constituents compared to conventional cigarette smoke, the review identified additional chemicals of concern that warrant health evaluation and regulatory consideration for these products.
Correction: Assessing the Health Impacts of Heated Tobacco Products Compared to Traditional Tobacco Use: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence.
Ambildhok Kadambari A, Asawa Kailash, Garcha Vikram. Cureus. 2026 Jul. doi:10.7759/cureus.c463
Summary
This correction notice addresses a systematic review comparing health impacts of heated tobacco products (HTPs) to traditional cigarettes. The review synthesized current evidence on how HTPs affect health outcomes compared to conventional tobacco smoking, providing updated information for public health decision-making regarding these emerging products.
E-cigarettes—Youth/Adolescents
Digital gamification and serious games for preventing e-cigarette use in adolescents: A systematic review without meta-analysis (SWiM).
Hasan Siti Idayu, Selvasingam Ruthashini R, Mohd Hairi Farizah. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.3390/ijerph21101375
Summary
This systematic review examined the effectiveness of digital gamification and serious games as tools to prevent e-cigarette use among adolescents. The review synthesizes evidence on whether interactive and immersive game-based approaches can engage youth in e-cigarette prevention efforts, addressing a significant public health concern given rising rates of adolescent vaping.
Epidemiology—Prevalence
Smoking prevalence and emerging tobacco product use among Saudi adolescents: a systematic review.
Alalawi Abdullah. Frontiers in public health. 2026. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2025.1636757
Summary
A systematic review examined smoking and emerging nicotine product use (including e-cigarettes) among Saudi adolescents, synthesizing research published since 2018. The review identified current prevalence rates and documented sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with tobacco and nicotine product use in this population.
Health Effects—Cancer
Association between adolescent alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking with adult risk of breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Hosseini Fatemeh, Amin Negin, Dasari Pallave et al.. Preventive medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.ypmed.2026.108640
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether smoking and alcohol use during adolescence—a critical period of breast tissue development—increases breast cancer risk in adulthood. The research synthesizes existing evidence to clarify the long-term cancer implications of early-life tobacco and alcohol exposure in women.
Health Effects—Cardiovascular
Association between smoking and surgical site infection after spinal fusion surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Dang Phuoc Giau, Chen Yu-Pin, Nguyen Hoan Le et al.. Irish journal of medical science. 2026 Jul. doi:10.2188/jea.JE20170112
Summary
A systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether smoking increases the risk of surgical site infections following spinal fusion surgery. The review synthesized evidence from multiple studies to clarify the inconsistent findings in the literature regarding the relationship between smoking status and post-operative infection complications in this surgical population.
Policy—Taxation/Pricing
The Effect of Combustible Tobacco Tax Changes on Smoking Behaviours Among Young Adults: A Systematic Review.
Alblooshi Manal, Goh Ruth, Feliu Ariadna et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag164
Summary
This systematic review examined how changes in combustible tobacco taxes affect smoking behaviours among young adults. The findings contribute to the evidence base on whether tax increases are effective policy tools for reducing tobacco use in this age group, which has important implications for public health strategies aimed at preventing smoking initiation and promoting cessation among younger populations.
Other
Correction: Imran et al. Nicotine Risk Education and Its Impact on Knowledge, Perceptions, and Behavioral Intentions: A Scoping Review of U.S. Studies. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2026, 23, 636.
Imran Rabia, Patel Aashka, Snell Morgan. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070939
Summary
This is a correction notice to a previously published scoping review examining U.S. studies on nicotine risk education and its effects on knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions. The correction addresses errors or updates in the original publication but does not present new research findings or substantive content for public health practice.
🍁 Canadian 7

Articles with Canadian authors or institutional affiliations.

▶ Browse 7 Canadian articles
E-cigarettes—Cessation
Vaping cessation interventions: A narrative review of randomized controlled trials.
Zolotarova Tetiana, Moiz Areesha, Lelièvre Audrey et al.. Tobacco prevention & cessation. 2026. doi:10.1111/add.15614
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A narrative review examined randomized controlled trials testing behavioral and pharmacological interventions to help people quit vaping. The review synthesizes evidence on what treatment approaches are most effective for e-cigarette cessation, addressing the growing need for evidence-based quit-vaping strategies as vaping prevalence rises, especially among young people.
E-cigarettes—Co-use
Patterns and implications of co-use between vaping and hallucinogens: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Heshmati Javad, Grover Krystal, Mahmoodianfard Salma et al.. Addictive behaviors. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108803
SR 🍁 Canadian
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the co-use of e-cigarettes and hallucinogens, which appears to be increasing among youth and young adults. The review synthesizes evidence on the association between vaping and hallucinogen use to better understand patterns and implications of this concurrent substance use behavior.
Health Effects—Pregnancy/Perinatal
Impact of childhood and parental smoking and substance use on nephrotic syndrome outcomes: a prospective cohort study.
Joshi Tanay, Robinson Cal H, Aman Nowrin et al.. Pediatric nephrology (Berlin, Germany). 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.trsl.2025.01.001
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how household smoking, adolescent smoking, alcohol use, and recreational drug use affect outcomes in children with nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disease). The study followed children over time to understand whether these environmental and behavioral exposures influence disease progression and clinical outcomes in pediatric kidney patients.
Health Effects—Respiratory
Serum 8-OHdG as a Marker of Oxidative DNA Damage in Acute Exacerbations of COPD: Associations with GOLD Stage and Smoking Status-A Cross Sectional Study.
Rus Larisa Alexandra, Popețiu Romana Olivia, Borta Simona Maria et al.. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medicina62071369
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers measured oxidative DNA damage (using the marker 8-OHdG) in blood samples from patients experiencing acute COPD exacerbations to understand how smoking and disease severity relate to cellular damage from oxidative stress. The study examined whether this biomarker could help identify which COPD patients experience the most severe oxidative stress during acute episodes, with potential implications for understanding disease progression and treatment needs.
Policy—Marketing/Advertising
Plain Packaging: One of the Plain Simple Solutions for Nicotine Reduction in the Middle East.
Al-Hamdani Mohammed, Smith Steven M, Abouzoor Rana et al.. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070879
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Plain packaging of tobacco products is examined as a potential policy tool to reduce tobacco use in the Middle East, where conventional tobacco control measures like taxes, smoking bans, and warning labels have had limited effectiveness. The research suggests that removing brand imagery and colors from packaging could be an additional strategy to decrease the appeal and consumption of tobacco products in this region.
Exploring the Discourse Around Zyn Nicotine Pouches on Instagram and TikTok: Content Analysis.
Tripathi Arpita, Hoffman Beth, Larkin Christine et al.. JMIR infodemiology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1007/s40429-022-00463-2
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers analyzed how nicotine pouches (specifically Zyn) are discussed and promoted on Instagram and TikTok social media platforms. The study examined social media discourse around a product category experiencing rapid growth in sales, coinciding with rising concerns about youth exposure and use of these oral nicotine products.
Policy—Smoke-free Environments
Expansion of smoke-free policies and their associations with observed smoking, policy support and voluntary home bans in South Korea: findings from the 2005-2020 ITC Korea surveys.
Yoon Wonjeong, Seo Hong Gwan, Lee Sungkyu et al.. BMJ public health. 2026. doi:10.1136/bmjph-2025-004616
🍁 Canadian
Summary
Over 15 years (2005-2020), South Korea progressively expanded smoke-free regulations and this analysis examined whether these policy changes corresponded with increases in observed smoke-free compliance, public support for smoke-free laws, and voluntary home smoking bans. The study tracked these outcomes across multiple survey waves to understand how regulatory expansion influenced both smoking behaviour and public attitudes toward smoke-free policies.
All Articles by Category 108
▶ Browse all 108 articles
Cessation—Behavioural Interventions
Motives for Quitting Smoking and Reasons for Relapse Among Current Smoking Quitters in Abha City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Albqami Sultan Abdullah, Almaqsudi Ali Hassan, Alqahtani Hajar Saeed et al.. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/healthcare14142030
🔓 Open Access
Summary
A cross-sectional study in Abha City, Saudi Arabia examined the motivations for quitting smoking and factors associated with relapse among people attempting to quit. Understanding the psychological and social drivers behind quit attempts and relapse can inform the development of more targeted behavioural interventions to support sustained smoking cessation.
Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for smoking cessation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Okawa Yohei. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.4103/2319-5932.195845
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for helping people quit smoking by addressing the thinking patterns and behaviors that maintain smoking addiction. CBT is a psychological approach that targets the cognitive, behavioral, and relapse-related mechanisms underlying tobacco dependence.
Associations of egocentric social network characteristics with conversations about the harms of smoking and the benefits of quitting.
Cruz-Jiménez Lizeth, Thrasher James F, Lambert Victoria C et al.. PloS one. 2026. doi:10.1016/s0378-8733(01)00047-8
Summary
People who smoke with certain social network characteristics may be more likely to engage in conversations about smoking harms and quitting benefits. Understanding how a smoker's social connections relate to their willingness to discuss cessation could help design more effective peer-based or social interventions to support quit attempts.
Breast cancer diagnosis as a window of opportunity for smoking cessation: analysis of changes in smoking behaviour in 736 smoking breast cancer patients.
Lintunen Raakel, Tamminen Anselm. Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/CANCERS15041231
🔓 Open Access
Summary
A study of 736 women who smoked and were diagnosed with breast cancer examined whether the cancer diagnosis prompted changes in smoking behaviour. The research explores whether a breast cancer diagnosis represents a critical moment when smoking cessation interventions could be particularly effective, as patients may be more motivated to quit due to their diagnosis and treatment needs.
Acute aerobic exercise modulates sweetness-related food preference in individuals with nicotine dependence: the mediating role of prefrontal cortical activity.
Liu Hongen, Zhang Yingying, Sun Pinghan et al.. Frontiers in nutrition. 2026. doi:10.3389/fnagi.2021.743479
🔓 Open Access
Summary
A study of 60 male university students with nicotine dependence examined whether a single bout of aerobic exercise could reduce cravings for sweet foods and identified brain activity changes as a potential mechanism. Acute aerobic exercise may help modulate food preferences in people dependent on nicotine by altering activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region involved in decision-making and impulse control.
Cessation—Digital/Mobile
Wear-Smile: A Multidisciplinary Telemedicine-Based Smoking Cessation Program Assisted by Wearable Monitoring Devices for Persons Who Smoke-Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.
Di Palo Maria Pia, Amato Massimo, Vecchione Carmine et al.. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/healthcare14142055
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Wear-Smile is a protocol for testing a telemedicine-based smoking cessation program that combines remote counseling support with wearable devices to monitor smoking behavior and provide real-time feedback. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether integrating wearable technology with digital health services can improve quit rates by overcoming accessibility barriers that limit participation in conventional smoking cessation interventions.
Within-Day Dynamics of Self-Efficacy and Smoking Attitudes: Ecological Momentary Assessment Study of Motivation to Quit and Forgoing Behavior.
Rebar Amanda L, Xiong Liyan, Yang Chih-Hsiang et al.. Journal of medical Internet research. 2026 Jul. doi:10.2196/46155
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used ecological momentary assessment (EMA)—a method that captures real-time data on people's thoughts and behaviors throughout the day—to examine how self-efficacy and attitudes toward smoking fluctuate and influence quit attempts. Understanding these within-day patterns of motivation and psychological states could help tailor digital interventions to support smokers at vulnerable moments when they are most likely to smoke or successfully forgo cigarettes.
Enhancing the long-term abstinence rate of smoking through telemedicine: A multicenter, retrospective cohort study in Japan.
Takakura Kazuki, Ishizawa Tetsuro, Aoki Yoshihiko et al.. PloS one. 2026. doi:10.1185/03007995.2010.505130
Summary
This Japanese study compared telemedicine-based smoking cessation support with traditional in-person counseling to determine which approach achieved better long-term abstinence rates in a large population. The research evaluates whether remote video consultations can be as effective as face-to-face visits for helping smokers quit and stay smoke-free over an extended period.
Cessation—Health Systems
Exploring factors that influence the implementation of presurgical smoking cessation interventions: a cross-sectional survey.
Gavilan Castillo Eva, Fernández Esteve, Panera Jon Aritz et al.. Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthesie. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1370/afm.1909
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Healthcare professionals' implementation of evidence-based smoking cessation interventions (the 5As model) for surgical patients varies significantly. The study identified key barriers and facilitators to implementing these brief interventions in presurgical settings, providing insights into how health systems can better support smoking cessation efforts among patients preparing for surgery.
Effect of brief smoking cessation online training on knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and organizational factors in European health professions students: A pre-post study.
Martínez Cristina, Pardavila-Belio Miren Idoia, Laroussy Kenza et al.. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.1111/jnu.12733
Summary
An online training program on smoking cessation was provided to health professions students across Europe to evaluate its impact on their knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and access to organizational support for tobacco cessation counseling. The study assessed whether brief online education could improve health professionals' capacity to support patients in quitting smoking, addressing gaps in tobacco cessation training during professional education.
Geographical accessibility to smoking cessation treatment facilities across 335 medical areas in Japan: A nationwide cross-sectional descriptive study using large-scale geospatial data.
Egashira Yuki, Watanabe Ryo. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009828
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used geospatial mapping methods to examine how accessible smoking cessation treatment facilities are across 335 medical areas in Japan. This nationwide study addresses a gap in tobacco control research by analyzing the geographical distribution of cessation services, which has received less attention than studies of tobacco retail locations or general healthcare access.
Cessation—Pharmacotherapy
Nicotine Withdrawal Syndrome in Intensive Care Patients-Preventive and Therapeutic Implications.
Piotrkowska Renata, Miszewska Aneta, Lange Sandra et al.. Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medsci14030374
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Nicotine dependence in intensive care unit patients presents a clinical challenge, as abrupt cessation of nicotine during hospitalization can trigger withdrawal symptoms that complicate treatment outcomes. This research examines how nicotine withdrawal syndrome affects ICU patients and explores preventive and therapeutic strategies to manage both the psychological and physical aspects of nicotine dependence in this acute care setting.
Clavulanic acid is associated with moderation of cigarette use in patients with cocaine use disorder: A post-hoc analysis.
Jalali Shayan, McBride Hannah, Maser Joya et al.. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2026.113273
Summary
Researchers conducted a post-hoc analysis of a 12-week trial to examine whether clavulanic acid, a medication being tested for cocaine use disorder treatment, had any effects on cigarette smoking among trial participants. The analysis also investigated how adverse childhood experiences influenced treatment response for smoking outcomes.
Cessation—Pregnancy
Perceived Tobacco Smoking Risk and Predictors of Smoking During Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Predictive Correlational Study.
Gulley Teresa, Hammer Denise, Kim MyoungJin et al.. Maternal and child health journal. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107854
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined which factors predict whether pregnant women continue to smoke, including their perception of smoking risks, emotional attachment to their fetus, and stress levels. Understanding these psychological and emotional factors can help identify pregnant women at higher risk of continued smoking and inform targeted cessation interventions during pregnancy.
Cessation—Youth
Exploring the effects of attachment dimensions on nicotine-induced attentional bias: an eye-tracking observational study in young people who smoke.
Mercante Beniamina, Zorzi Federico, Uccula Arcangelo Francesco et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag161
Summary
Researchers used eye-tracking technology to examine how attachment styles (patterns in how people relate to others emotionally) influence the tendency of young smokers to automatically focus attention on smoking-related cues. Understanding these psychological connections may help identify which young people are most vulnerable to nicotine's addictive pull and could inform more targeted cessation approaches.
Evaluating cannabis-nicotine substitution and demand during nicotine cessation treatment in young adults: protocol for a prospective, remote 12-week nicotine cessation trial in the USA.
Dowd Ashley N, Baker Nathaniel L, Koffarnus Mikhail N et al.. BMJ open. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109278
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This protocol describes a planned 12-week prospective study examining how cannabis use affects nicotine cessation outcomes in young adults who use both substances. The research aims to fill a significant gap in understanding cannabis-nicotine co-use patterns and whether cannabis may serve as a substitute for nicotine during quit attempts, which could inform more targeted cessation interventions for this population.
E-cigarettes—Addiction/Dependence
Synthetic cooling agents enhance nicotine reinforcement and mesolimbic dopamine signaling.
Maddox Sarah K, Mensah Esther N, Young Lauren E et al.. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1124/mol.113.087346
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how synthetic cooling agents (WS-3 and WS-23), which are being used as substitutes for menthol in e-cigarettes following menthol bans, affect nicotine's addictive properties. The study found that these synthetic coolants enhance nicotine reinforcement and increase dopamine signaling in brain regions associated with reward, suggesting they may make e-cigarettes more addictive despite being marketed as menthol alternatives.
Does a 10-puff bout reflect natural puffing patterns for electronic nicotine delivery systems?
Blank Melissa D, Felicione Nicholas, Breland Alison et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag165
Summary
Researchers examined how electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) users naturally group their puffs together and whether the standard 10-puff laboratory testing procedure accurately reflects real-world vaping patterns. Understanding natural puffing behavior is important for ensuring that laboratory-based studies and toxicology assessments using standardized puff protocols represent how people actually use these devices.
A cross-sectional study of predictors of perceptions of addiction among college students using Electronic Nicotine Delivery System users.
Coull Eliza, Fanus Madison, LiCausi Olivia et al.. Tobacco prevention & cessation. 2026. doi:10.1177/1179173X241304275
🔓 Open Access
Summary
College students' perceptions of addiction to nicotine from e-cigarettes vary based on individual and contextual factors. Since perception of addiction is linked to motivation to quit, understanding what influences these perceptions among young adult ENDS users can inform cessation messaging and interventions tailored to this population.
E-cigarettes—Cessation
Vaping cessation interventions: A narrative review of randomized controlled trials.
Zolotarova Tetiana, Moiz Areesha, Lelièvre Audrey et al.. Tobacco prevention & cessation. 2026. doi:10.1111/add.15614
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A narrative review examined randomized controlled trials testing behavioral and pharmacological interventions to help people quit vaping. The review synthesizes evidence on what treatment approaches are most effective for e-cigarette cessation, addressing the growing need for evidence-based quit-vaping strategies as vaping prevalence rises, especially among young people.
E-cigarettes—Co-use
Patterns and implications of co-use between vaping and hallucinogens: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Heshmati Javad, Grover Krystal, Mahmoodianfard Salma et al.. Addictive behaviors. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108803
SR 🍁 Canadian
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the co-use of e-cigarettes and hallucinogens, which appears to be increasing among youth and young adults. The review synthesizes evidence on the association between vaping and hallucinogen use to better understand patterns and implications of this concurrent substance use behavior.
Associations of motivation to quit smoking or vaping, quitting self-efficacy, and quit attempts with oral nicotine pouch use.
Pokhrel Pallav, Kawamoto Crissy T, Phillips Kristina T et al.. Addictive behaviors. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108797
Summary
Oral nicotine pouches are increasingly used among people who smoke cigarettes or vape, often with the stated goal of quitting these products. This research examines whether factors associated with successful smoking and vaping cessation—such as motivation to quit and confidence in one's ability to quit—are also linked to oral nicotine pouch use patterns and quit attempts.
Do people who smoke and vape experience different cravings for each product? Insights from a dual cessation intervention.
Dowd Ashley N, Moody Kathryn, Bagley Evan et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag166
Summary
Researchers examined whether people who both smoke and vape experience different cravings for cigarettes versus e-cigarettes, using data from a study testing a quit-smoking intervention. Understanding product-specific cravings could help develop more effective cessation strategies for the growing population of dual users who struggle to quit either product.
Cannabis vaping and tobacco quit intentions, quit attempts, and symptoms of nicotine dependence among youth in the United States.
Simpson Valerie L, Levy Taylor, Esquenazi-Karonika Shari et al.. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2026.113268
Summary
Researchers examined how cannabis vaping among U.S. youth relates to tobacco cessation outcomes, including quit intentions, quit attempts, and nicotine dependence symptoms. The study used nationally representative data to understand the relationship between concurrent cannabis and tobacco use, which is common among youth but poorly understood in terms of its impact on tobacco cessation efforts.
Characterizing reasons for e-cigarette use among Filipino adults who smoke: A cross-sectional study.
Zaman Raniyan, Czaplicki Lauren, Crespi Elizabeth et al.. Tobacco prevention & cessation. 2026. doi:10.1111/j.1360-0443.2010.03317.x
Summary
This cross-sectional study examined why Filipino adults who currently smoke use e-cigarettes, including motivations related to smoking cessation. Understanding the reasons for dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes in this population can inform public health strategies to prevent or address concurrent use of both products.
E-cigarettes—Health Effects
Beyond the WHO Priority Toxicants: A Systematic Review of Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents in IQOS Aerosols.
Matei Roxana Ioana, Baroi Anda Maria, Fistos Toma et al.. Toxics. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/toxics14070614
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A systematic review examined harmful and potentially harmful chemicals in IQOS heated tobacco product aerosols, looking beyond the WHO's priority list of toxicants. While IQOS aerosols generally contain lower levels of harmful constituents compared to conventional cigarette smoke, the review identified additional chemicals of concern that warrant health evaluation and regulatory consideration for these products.
Exploratory Detection of Nile Red-Positive Microparticles in Peripheral Blood Samples from Chronic Users of Nicotine Products Using Flow Cytometry.
Śniadach Justyna, Starosz Aleksandra, Kicman Aleksandra et al.. Toxics. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/toxics14070611
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers detected Nile Red-positive microparticles in blood samples from people who chronically use nicotine products using flow cytometry analysis. This exploratory study investigates whether nicotine product use may be associated with microparticle exposure in the bloodstream, though the clinical significance of these findings requires further investigation.
Electronic Cigarette Use and Sleep Quality Among Young Adults in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.
Alotayfi Majed A, Salih Sarah, Alqarny Abdulilah et al.. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/healthcare14142068
🔓 Open Access
Summary
A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia examined the relationship between electronic cigarette use and sleep quality among young adults aged 18-25 years. The research found an association between e-cigarette use and reduced sleep quality in this population, suggesting that vaping may be a modifiable risk factor affecting sleep patterns in young adults.
Effects of Flammable and Non-Flammable Nicotine Products on Kidney Health.
Carollo Caterina, Sorce Alessandra, Cirafici Emanuele et al.. Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medsci14030386
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how flammable cigarettes and non-flammable nicotine products (such as e-cigarettes) affect kidney health. The study contributes to understanding the broader health impacts of different nicotine delivery methods beyond traditional smoking-related diseases.
Nicotine levels in emissions from heat sticks without tobacco exceed health-based advisory values: A chemical-analytical study.
Pauwels Charlotte G G M, Versluis Caroline, Talhout Reinskje et al.. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00024
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers analyzed nicotine levels in emissions from newly marketed heat sticks that contain nicotine but no tobacco, finding that nicotine concentrations in the aerosol exceeded health-based advisory values. This raises concerns about the potential nicotine exposure and health risks associated with these emerging non-tobacco heated products.
Combustible Cigarette Smoking, Electronic Cigarette Use, and Metabolic Syndrome in a Working Population.
Cano Astrid Lorena Urbano, Alvarez Rosero Rosa Elvira, Portuguez Jaramillo Nelson Esteban et al.. Epidemiologia (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/nu15092105
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined the relationship between combustible cigarette smoking, electronic cigarette use, and metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol that increase cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk. This study provides evidence on how different forms of tobacco exposure may contribute to metabolic dysfunction in working adults.
Correction: Assessing the Health Impacts of Heated Tobacco Products Compared to Traditional Tobacco Use: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence.
Ambildhok Kadambari A, Asawa Kailash, Garcha Vikram. Cureus. 2026 Jul. doi:10.7759/cureus.c463
SR
Summary
This correction notice addresses a systematic review comparing health impacts of heated tobacco products (HTPs) to traditional cigarettes. The review synthesized current evidence on how HTPs affect health outcomes compared to conventional tobacco smoking, providing updated information for public health decision-making regarding these emerging products.
Comprehensive Health Risk Assessment of Electronic Cigarette Aerosols: Metal and PAH Characterization, Oxidative Potential, and Cancer Risk Estimation.
Chou Li-Ti, Chen Tsai-Ling, Chen Jen-Kun et al.. ACS environmental Au. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.teac.2023.e00195
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of electronic cigarette aerosols to assess their toxicological hazards by measuring metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and oxidative potential—markers of potential harm. The study integrated multiple toxicological endpoints to provide a more complete picture of EC aerosol health risks compared to traditional cigarettes, addressing a significant evidence gap in understanding the safety profile of these products.
The triple-hit hypothesis: exploring pulmonary e-cigarette, PM2.5 and viral polyexposure.
Clemén Hilma, Ramu Sangeetha, Uller Lena. European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1021/acs.est.5b05833
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This review examines how exposure to e-cigarette aerosols, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and respiratory viruses interact when people are exposed to multiple pollutants simultaneously in real-world conditions. E-cigarette use alters lung immune cells in ways that may increase vulnerability to other respiratory threats, suggesting that vaping combined with air pollution or viral infections could have compounded harmful effects on respiratory health.
Global Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases from E‑Cigarette Exposure: Trend Analysis and 2050 Projections.
Zhang Xiaoxing, Ma Xinmo, Yu Dan et al.. Environment & health (Washington, D.C.). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph10104790
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This study examined the global health burden associated with e-cigarette exposure and projected the impact of non-communicable diseases through 2050. The research systematically evaluated the association between e-cigarette use and major chronic conditions including respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders, providing trend data and forecasts for future disease burden.
Caryocar coriaceum fixed oil attenuates E-cigarette Aerosol-Induced pulmonary injury and oxidative stress in mice.
Nobre da Silva João Lucas, Lima de Oliveira Matheus, Matos da Penha Guilherme et al.. Journal of ethnopharmacology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2026.122218
Summary
Researchers tested whether pequi oil, a traditional Brazilian plant remedy with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, could protect against lung damage caused by e-cigarette aerosol in mice. The study found that pequi oil treatment reduced pulmonary injury and oxidative stress markers in mice exposed to e-cigarette aerosol, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for vaping-related lung damage.
High-throughput toxicological assessment of heated tobacco product aerosols using RNA sequencing-based concentration-response modeling.
Matsumura Kazushi. Toxicology letters. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.toxlet.2026.113167
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used advanced RNA sequencing methods to assess the toxic effects of aerosols from heated tobacco products (HTPs), which heat rather than burn tobacco. The study evaluated how different HTP heating technologies affect exposure to harmful constituents, providing toxicological data to compare these products with conventional cigarettes and other alternatives.
Association between smoking and vaping behaviors and self-perceived voice handicap in young medical trainees.
Alrawashdeh Baeth, Abu Nassar Ruby, Shlash Obadah et al.. European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1242/dmm.049476
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined the relationship between smoking (cigarettes and shisha) and vaping with voice problems among medical trainees in Jordan. The study found associations between these tobacco and nicotine use behaviors and self-reported voice handicap, suggesting potential voice-related health effects from both traditional and electronic nicotine products among young adults.
The Vape, the Mouth, and the Mycobiome: A Comparative Metagenomic Analysis.
Nikam R, Kalani K, Beverly M et al.. Journal of dental research. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1177/00220345261450182
Summary
Researchers examined how e-cigarettes affect the fungi living in the mouth (oral mycobiome) compared to combustible tobacco and non-use, using genetic sequencing methods. The study found that e-cigarette use creates imbalances in oral fungal communities, suggesting that while ENDS may be marketed as safer alternatives, they can still disrupt important microbial ecosystems in the mouth with potential implications for oral health.
E-cigarettes—Products/Marketing
Large-Scale Forensic Surveillance of Seized E-Liquids Reveals an Emerging Etomidate-Analog-Centered Vaping Trend in Eastern Taiwan.
Lin Huei-Ru. Toxics. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/toxics14070604
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers analyzed 496 e-liquid samples seized by law enforcement in Eastern Taiwan between January and July 2025 to identify illicit substances. The forensic analysis revealed an emerging trend of etomidate analogs (synthetic drugs) being delivered through e-cigarettes, highlighting a significant public health and law enforcement challenge in East Asia where vaping devices are increasingly exploited as delivery mechanisms for illicit drugs.
Plasma menthol delivery from a heated tobacco product predicts substitution for menthol cigarettes.
White Augustus M, Eid Tore, Imran Rabia et al.. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2026.113272
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how much menthol is delivered from a heated tobacco product and whether this delivery pattern influences smokers to switch from menthol cigarettes. The findings suggest that the menthol delivery profile of heated tobacco products may be a key factor determining whether menthol cigarette smokers will substitute to these alternative products, indicating that product design features beyond nicotine content play an important role in switching behavior.
Philip Morris International's youth-appealing 'Curiosity' IQOS advertising campaign.
Yin Tsai-Han, Jackler Robert K. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2025-059949
Summary
Philip Morris International's 'Curiosity' campaign for IQOS heated tobacco products, launched in 2024, uses youth-appealing marketing strategies to promote the devices as fashionable lifestyle products and purportedly safer alternatives to cigarettes. This advertising approach raises public health concerns about the potential to attract young people to a nicotine-containing product despite claims of reduced harm.
E-cigarettes—Youth/Adolescents
Oral Nicotine Pouches and the Emerging Addiction Crisis Among Youth in Pakistan: A Perspective.
Awan Wasay Mumtaz, Aamir Muhammad Shafay, Zulfiqar Mohid et al.. Health science reports. 2026 Aug. doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102239
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) are smokeless, flavored products being marketed as safer alternatives to cigarettes, but their rapid adoption among adolescents in Pakistan presents emerging public health concerns. This perspective examines the growing use of ONPs among youth, highlighting the need for attention to addiction risks and marketing practices that may be appealing to younger populations.
Digital gamification and serious games for preventing e-cigarette use in adolescents: A systematic review without meta-analysis (SWiM).
Hasan Siti Idayu, Selvasingam Ruthashini R, Mohd Hairi Farizah. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.3390/ijerph21101375
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This systematic review examined the effectiveness of digital gamification and serious games as tools to prevent e-cigarette use among adolescents. The review synthesizes evidence on whether interactive and immersive game-based approaches can engage youth in e-cigarette prevention efforts, addressing a significant public health concern given rising rates of adolescent vaping.
Relational Victimization, Depressive Symptoms, and E-cigarette Use Intentions Among Adolescents: A Parallel Process Growth Curve Model.
Kawabata Yoshito, Dalisay Francis, Basilio Veronica C. Research on child and adolescent psychopathology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1111/cdep.12174
Summary
Adolescents in Guam who experienced relational victimization (peer mistreatment) and subsequent depressive symptoms showed increased intentions to use e-cigarettes over time. The study used statistical modeling to track these three factors longitudinally, revealing that social victimization and mental health challenges may be linked to e-cigarette use risk among young people in this Pacific Island population.
Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Use and Weight-Related Intentions Among High School Students in the United States.
Maldonado Gabrielle T, Mantey Dale S, Wall Catherine S et al.. Substance use & misuse. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1080/10826084.2026.2704620
Summary
High school students in the United States use electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS/e-cigarettes) for various reasons, including weight control as an emerging motivation for initiation and continued use. Understanding weight-related intentions behind ENDS use among adolescents is important for developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies for this population.
Epidemiology—Disparities
The association between night shift work and elevated risk of smoking use among ride-hailing drivers: findings from a cross-sectional study.
Yan Tenglong, Su Jianjian, Hu Binshuo et al.. Frontiers in public health. 2026. doi:10.1016/0140-6736(91)93068-K
Summary
Night shift work is associated with higher smoking rates among ride-hailing drivers, extending a pattern previously documented in traditional occupations. This finding highlights a potential occupational health disparity in an emerging workforce that may warrant targeted smoking prevention and cessation efforts.
Validity of the Fagerström test for nicotine dependence among persons with intellectual disabilities: Cross-sectional evidence from the POWER PID study.
Lakhdar Christian Ben, Massin Sophie, Blanc Morgane Le et al.. Tobacco prevention & cessation. 2026. doi:10.1080/00365513.2023.2204402
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This research examined whether the Fagerström test for nicotine dependence—a widely used screening tool—works accurately for adults with intellectual disabilities. The study identified methodological challenges in using standard dependence measures with this population, highlighting a significant gap in tobacco research and screening practices for people with intellectual disabilities.
Beyond Acculturation: Ethnic Identity, Tobacco and Nicotine Product Use, and Health Among Arab Americans.
Alnahari Sarah, Durazo Arturo, Brown Paul et al.. Tobacco use insights. 2026. doi:10.1007/s11739-025-03873-y
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Arab Americans experience elevated tobacco and nicotine product use rates but remain underrepresented in national tobacco surveillance and prevention efforts due to being classified as "White" in standard data collection systems. This research highlights how ethnic identity and acculturation patterns influence tobacco use among this fast-growing immigrant population, pointing to significant gaps in understanding and addressing tobacco-related health disparities in this community.
Epidemiology—Prevalence
Smoking prevalence and emerging tobacco product use among Saudi adolescents: a systematic review.
Alalawi Abdullah. Frontiers in public health. 2026. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2025.1636757
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A systematic review examined smoking and emerging nicotine product use (including e-cigarettes) among Saudi adolescents, synthesizing research published since 2018. The review identified current prevalence rates and documented sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with tobacco and nicotine product use in this population.
Correlates of oral nicotine pouch use, use frequency and flavour use among US adults.
He Yanyun, Roberts Megan E, Li Dongmei et al.. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2025-059971
Summary
This study examined who uses oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) and how they are being used among a nationally representative sample of US adults. The research identified tobacco use patterns and demographic characteristics associated with ONP use, use frequency, and flavour preferences to fill a gap in understanding this emerging nicotine product category.
Health Effects—Cancer
[Disease burden and causal analysis of esophageal cancer attributable to smoking in China and globally from 1990 to 2021].
Ye X, Xuan T T, Ju Y J et al.. Zhonghua yu fang yi xue za zhi [Chinese journal of preventive medicine]. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3760/cma.j.cn112150-20250805-00758
Summary
This study examined the burden of esophageal cancer caused by smoking in China and worldwide between 1990 and 2021, analyzing deaths and years of life lost to disability from smoking-related esophageal cancer. The research provides evidence of the significant global and regional disease burden attributable to smoking as a risk factor for esophageal cancer, contributing to the scientific foundation for understanding smoking's impact on cancer outcomes.
Role of late-onset smoking in super-aged patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a real-world study in China between 2010 and 2024.
Shi Zhan, Tang Xi, Shen Qianwen. PeerJ. 2026. doi:10.1111/bjh.17250
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This research examined how early-onset smoking history (starting before age 24) affects survival outcomes in elderly Chinese patients aged 80 and older diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Understanding the long-term health consequences of lifelong smoking patterns in super-aged populations with cancer can inform clinical decision-making and prognostic counseling for this vulnerable demographic.
Association between adolescent alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking with adult risk of breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Hosseini Fatemeh, Amin Negin, Dasari Pallave et al.. Preventive medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.ypmed.2026.108640
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether smoking and alcohol use during adolescence—a critical period of breast tissue development—increases breast cancer risk in adulthood. The research synthesizes existing evidence to clarify the long-term cancer implications of early-life tobacco and alcohol exposure in women.
Association between smoking habits and breast density, changes in breast density, and breast cancer in Asian women.
Park Boyoung, Yoon Junghyun, Jeon Somin et al.. Journal of the National Cancer Institute. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/jnci/djag231
Summary
A large Korean cohort study of 4.7 million women examined how smoking status and breast density relate to breast cancer risk in Asian women. The research investigated whether smoking affects breast density and whether changes in breast density over time influence subsequent breast cancer development.
Smoking reshapes systemic metabolic coordination across lung cancer subtypes: a multicenter total-body 18F-FDG PET/CT study with tumor habitat imaging.
Wang Haiyan, Wu Yaping, Duan Yanhua et al.. European journal of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1001/jama.2011.334
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used advanced imaging technology (PET/CT scans) to examine how smoking affects the body's metabolism in 125 lung cancer patients across different cancer types. The study found that smoking causes widespread changes in how the body's systems work together metabolically, with these effects varying depending on the type of lung cancer, suggesting that smoking's impact on lung cancer extends beyond just the lungs to affect whole-body health.
Associations between metabolomic signatures of persistent smoking effects and lung cancer risk among former smokers.
Le Duc Huy, Cai Hui, Yu Danxia et al.. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-25-2011
Summary
Researchers identified a metabolite signature that reflects persistent metabolic changes from smoking that continue even after people quit smoking. Among former smokers, this metabolic signature was associated with increased lung cancer risk, suggesting that smoking leaves lasting biological changes that may elevate cancer risk long after cessation.
Proteomic characterization of airway obstruction-associated proteins in non-smoking lung adenocarcinoma.
Jiang Shuting, Xu Quanlin, Liu Dahong et al.. Clinical & translational oncology : official publication of the Federation of Spanish Oncology Societies and of the National Cancer Institute of Mexico. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-16-0604
Summary
Researchers identified proteins associated with airway obstruction in people with lung adenocarcinoma who have never smoked, aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms linking these two conditions. This work helps explain why non-smoking lung cancer patients with concurrent airway obstruction experience worse clinical outcomes by revealing the underlying biological changes involved.
Health Effects—Cardiovascular
Macrophage Polarization and Endothelial Dysfunction in Response to Cigarette Smoke and Ketone Body Administration.
Ardiana Meity, Maya Sufiyah Inna, Triastuti Fita et al.. Cardiovascular & hematological disorders drug targets. 2026 Jul. doi:10.2174/011871529X437571251214200529
Summary
Cigarette smoking damages blood vessel function by triggering immune cells (macrophages) to adopt a pro-inflammatory state that promotes vascular disease. Researchers investigated whether ketone bodies—compounds produced during fasting or certain diets—could counteract this harmful immune response and reduce smoking-related cardiovascular damage by modulating macrophage behavior.
Short-Term Nicotine Improves Experimental Flap Survival: Implications for Different Findings in Experimental Flap Models.
Sevdar Çeçen Gülce, Çeçen Süleyman, Yavaş Özkan et al.. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medicina62071398
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers investigated how short-term nicotine exposure affects surgical flap survival in an experimental model, finding that nicotine may have dose- and time-dependent effects on wound healing. This research helps explain why findings differ across studies on smoking and flap complications, suggesting that nicotine's effects on tissue recovery vary based on exposure duration and amount rather than having a single consistent impact.
Prevalence and Mortality Risk of Persistent Smoking After Myocardial Infarction in a Very-High-Risk Region of Southeastern Europe.
Milovančev Aleksandra, Ilić Aleksandra, Miljković Tatjana et al.. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medicina62071357
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This study examined smoking prevalence and long-term mortality outcomes among heart attack survivors in Southeastern Europe, a region with limited data on smoking behavior after cardiac events. Persistent smoking after myocardial infarction was associated with increased all-cause mortality risk, highlighting the critical importance of smoking cessation as part of cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention strategies in this high-risk population.
Short-term cardiovascular effects and puffing behavior of exclusive heated tobacco product (HTP) users: A quasi-experimental study.
Davigo Michele, Scala Marco, Turina Alessia et al.. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.3390/ijerph17093225
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers assessed the acute cardiovascular effects of exclusive IQOS heated tobacco product use and compared the results with other products to determine whether these devices are truly less harmful than conventional cigarettes. The study examined how IQOS affects heart function and other cardiovascular parameters, providing evidence to inform public health understanding of heated tobacco product safety.
MULTIPREVENT: Integrated screening for smoking-related multimorbidity using low-dose chest computed tomography.
Widłak Piotr, Mieczkowski Jakub, Tomasik Bartłomiej et al.. Public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.puhe.2026.106423
🔓 Open Access
Summary
MULTIPREVENT is a screening approach that uses low-dose chest CT scans to identify smokers at risk for multiple smoking-related diseases beyond lung cancer, including heart disease, COPD, osteoporosis, and other chronic conditions. By integrating screening for these interconnected health risks, this integrated approach could help identify vulnerable smokers who would benefit most from cessation support and intensive disease prevention efforts.
Association between smoking and surgical site infection after spinal fusion surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Dang Phuoc Giau, Chen Yu-Pin, Nguyen Hoan Le et al.. Irish journal of medical science. 2026 Jul. doi:10.2188/jea.JE20170112
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
A systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether smoking increases the risk of surgical site infections following spinal fusion surgery. The review synthesized evidence from multiple studies to clarify the inconsistent findings in the literature regarding the relationship between smoking status and post-operative infection complications in this surgical population.
Association of diabetes and smoking with stroke subtypes and mortality in a Saudi cohort.
Almohammed Hussain, Alrashidi Lama, Thalib Husna Irfan et al.. Cardiovascular endocrinology & metabolism. 2026 Sep. doi:10.1097/XCE.0000000000000362
Summary
This study examined how diabetes and smoking affect stroke outcomes and survival rates among patients in Saudi Arabia, where stroke cases are expected to double by 2030. The research focused on understanding the relationship between these two major risk factors and different types of strokes, as well as patient mortality, to better inform clinical management and prevention strategies.
Unraveling Sex Disparities of Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter in Asia: Contributions of Lifestyle Factors (Smoking, Excessive Alcohol Intake) and Life Expectancy.
Shi Yurun, Xiong Fanxi, Li Dan et al.. Journal of cardiovascular electrophysiology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1111/jce.70462
Summary
This research examined sex differences in atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter rates across Asian populations, investigating how smoking, alcohol consumption, aging, and life expectancy contribute to these disparities. The study helps clarify which lifestyle factors and demographic trends are most responsible for gender-based differences in heart rhythm disorders in Asia, providing evidence to inform targeted prevention strategies.
Examining the potential causal relationships among smoking, blood DNA methylation, and type 2 diabetes development: A Mendelian randomization study.
Li Wenhua, Li Yixiao, Dong Pan et al.. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.1038/s41467-024-44841-y
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used genetic analysis methods to investigate whether smoking directly causes type 2 diabetes or if the relationship is explained by changes in blood DNA methylation (chemical modifications to DNA that affect gene expression). This study helps clarify the biological mechanisms through which smoking increases diabetes risk, which could inform prevention and intervention strategies.
Health Effects—Mental Health
Exploring the role of chronic overlapping pain conditions on smoking dependence, cessation challenges, and internalizing psychopathology among individuals with irritable bowel syndrome who smoke.
Shepherd Justin M, Rogers Andrew H, Redmond Brooke Y et al.. Journal of behavioral medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1080/08964289.2023.2290480
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This research examined how chronic overlapping pain conditions (multiple co-occurring pain disorders) affect smoking dependence and cessation difficulty in people with irritable bowel syndrome who smoke. The study explores the connections between pain, smoking behavior, and mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression, highlighting that individuals dealing with multiple pain conditions may face additional barriers to quitting smoking.
Genetic background and sex moderate the effects of adolescent nicotine exposure on adult functional neural circuits and behavior.
Ünsal Hayreddin Said, Novoa Carlos, Zhang Nanyin et al.. Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England). 2026 Jul. doi:10.1177/02698811261464981
Summary
Researchers examined how nicotine exposure during adolescence affects brain function and behavior in adulthood, finding that the effects vary significantly based on genetic background and sex. Nicotine disrupts neural circuits involved in reward processing, cognition, and emotional regulation during this critical developmental period, with long-term consequences that differ between individuals and sexes. These findings highlight that vulnerability to nicotine's harmful effects during adolescence is not uniform and depends on individual genetic and biological factors.
Neuromelanin-MRI and tobacco smoking in first episode psychosis patients and controls.
Koster Merel, Vermeulen Jentien, Ziermans Tim et al.. Schizophrenia research. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.schres.2026.07.020
Summary
Researchers used a specialized brain imaging technique (neuromelanin-MRI) to examine dopamine system differences in the brains of patients with first-episode psychosis who smoke tobacco compared to non-smoking controls. This study investigated the biological mechanisms linking tobacco smoking to worse clinical outcomes in people with psychosis, focusing on dopamine dysfunction that may underlie both conditions.
Predicting nicotine dependence severity via state-dependent topological features of dynamic brain networks.
Lu Guohao, Guo Yichen, Ma Longyao et al.. Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2026.111849
Summary
Researchers used advanced brain imaging techniques to examine how dynamic patterns of brain network activity differ in people with tobacco use disorder compared to others. By analyzing time-varying connections between brain regions, the study identified specific brain network features that could predict the severity of nicotine dependence, potentially providing new biomarkers for understanding the neurological basis of tobacco addiction.
Smoking cessation and depression risk in newly diagnosed COPD patients: A nationwide cohort study.
Doo Jang Ho, Yu Jiwon, Park Sun Jae et al.. Respiratory medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2026.109050
Summary
A nationwide cohort study examined whether quitting smoking reduces depression risk in patients newly diagnosed with COPD. The research investigates an important gap in understanding how smoking cessation affects mental health outcomes in this vulnerable patient population, where depression is a common and serious comorbidity that worsens disease prognosis.
Health Effects—Other
Association of smoking and alcohol consumption with the presence of sarcopenia at follow-up in community-dwelling people aged 40-74 years.
Kaneko Takumi, Kabasawa Keiko, Kitamura Kaori et al.. Annals of geriatric medicine and research. 2026 Jul. doi:10.4235/agmr.26.0074
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined whether smoking and alcohol consumption are associated with sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) in middle-aged and older adults living in the community. This study of over 6,600 people provides evidence on how tobacco and alcohol use may contribute to muscle wasting and weakness in aging populations.
Effect of smoking on dental pulp responses to thermal and electrical sensibility tests.
Çulha Emre, Yüksekkaya Özge, Yüksekkaya İrfan et al.. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.1517/13543776.13.7.1003
Summary
Smoking affects the vascular and nervous system responses of the dental pulp (the living tissue inside teeth), which may alter how the pulp responds to temperature and electrical stimulation. This research examines the relationship between cigarette consumption and changes in dental pulp sensibility, contributing to our understanding of smoking's effects on oral sensory function.
Health Effects—Pregnancy/Perinatal
Joint Associations of Maternal Smoking and Pre-Pregnancy BMI with Term Low Birthweight and Small-for-Gestational-Age Births: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of 2024 United States Birth Data.
Kondracki Anthony J, Li Wei, Sun Ying. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070885
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This cross-sectional analysis of 2024 U.S. birth data examined how maternal smoking and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) together affect term low birthweight and small-for-gestational-age births. The study investigates the combined impact of these two modifiable risk factors on fetal growth outcomes in term infants, providing evidence on how maternal smoking cessation and weight management may jointly reduce adverse birth outcomes.
Maternal Smoking and Preterm Birth Among Infants With Orofacial Clefts.
Han Peichun, Benjamin Renata H, Ludorf Katherine L et al.. The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal : official publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1177/10556656261471958
🔓 Open Access
Summary
A population-based study examined whether maternal cigarette smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth among infants born with orofacial clefts (cleft lip/palate). The research used data from a large national birth defects study to understand how smoking exposure affects pregnancy outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Impact of childhood and parental smoking and substance use on nephrotic syndrome outcomes: a prospective cohort study.
Joshi Tanay, Robinson Cal H, Aman Nowrin et al.. Pediatric nephrology (Berlin, Germany). 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.trsl.2025.01.001
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how household smoking, adolescent smoking, alcohol use, and recreational drug use affect outcomes in children with nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disease). The study followed children over time to understand whether these environmental and behavioral exposures influence disease progression and clinical outcomes in pediatric kidney patients.
Developmental exposure to cigarette smoke particulate matter induces cross-generational DNA methylation changes in zebrafish.
Massarsky Andrey, Bernal Autumn, Prasad G L et al.. Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Toxicology & pharmacology : CBP. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.cbpc.2026.110628
Summary
Researchers exposed zebrafish embryos to cigarette smoke particulate matter and found that this developmental exposure caused DNA methylation changes (a type of epigenetic modification) that persisted across generations. These findings suggest that prenatal cigarette smoke exposure may have long-lasting heritable effects on gene regulation, with potential implications for understanding how maternal smoking affects not only exposed offspring but also their descendants.
Timing of intimate partner violence and alcohol and cigarette use across the perinatal period among American Indian and Alaska Native women.
Gillson Stefanie, Richer Ariel, Canavan Maureen et al.. Harm reduction journal. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1186/s12954-026-01506-x
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This research examined the relationship between intimate partner violence, alcohol use, and cigarette smoking among American Indian and Alaska Native women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The study highlights how these three risk factors are interconnected and disproportionately affect Indigenous women, who experience higher rates of violence and substance use inequities during this vulnerable time.
Perinatal smoking in mothers and fathers: Longitudinal associations with infant birth outcomes in the Triple B Pregnancy Cohort Study.
Weller Emmelyn, Aarsman Stephanie R, Teague Samantha et al.. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2026.113262
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how smoking by both mothers and fathers before and around the time of conception affects infant birth outcomes using data from the Triple B Pregnancy Cohort Study. This research expands beyond the well-known risks of maternal smoking during pregnancy to investigate the lesser-studied effects of paternal preconception smoking and smoking during the periconception period on newborn health.
Health Effects—Respiratory
Moderate hypoxaemia and cognitive impairment in individuals with cigarette smoke exposure.
Mazza T Mitchell, Hill Chloe, Pergel Dan et al.. ERJ open research. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1183/23120541.01562-2025
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined whether moderate levels of oxygen deprivation in the blood (hypoxaemia) contributes to cognitive impairment in people with COPD and a history of smoking. While severe oxygen deprivation is known to harm brain function, this study investigates whether even moderate oxygen levels play a role in cognitive decline among smokers with lung disease.
Evaluating the Impact of Little Cigar Use on the Oral Bacterial Microbiota of Cigarette Smokers.
Chattopadhyay Suhana, Malayil Leena, Mongodin Emmanuel F et al.. Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/pathogens15070732
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers investigated how little cigar use affects the bacterial communities in the mouth of people who already smoke cigarettes. The study examined immediate changes in oral microbiota after little cigar use, since tobacco products contain diverse bacteria and long-term tobacco use is known to alter the oral microbiome in ways that can lead to oral disease.
Serum 8-OHdG as a Marker of Oxidative DNA Damage in Acute Exacerbations of COPD: Associations with GOLD Stage and Smoking Status-A Cross Sectional Study.
Rus Larisa Alexandra, Popețiu Romana Olivia, Borta Simona Maria et al.. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/medicina62071369
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers measured oxidative DNA damage (using the marker 8-OHdG) in blood samples from patients experiencing acute COPD exacerbations to understand how smoking and disease severity relate to cellular damage from oxidative stress. The study examined whether this biomarker could help identify which COPD patients experience the most severe oxidative stress during acute episodes, with potential implications for understanding disease progression and treatment needs.
Effects of Cigarette Smoking on Oxidative Stress, DNA Damage, Immunological Profile, Viral Susceptibility, and Survival in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
de Iure Antonio, Vitiello Laura, Proietti Stefania et al.. Biomolecules. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/biom16071009
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how cigarette smoking affects multiple biological systems in people with COPD, including oxidative stress (harmful chemical reactions in the body), DNA damage, immune function, and vulnerability to viral infections. The study helps clarify why smokers with COPD experience worse health outcomes and persistent systemic complications beyond lung damage alone.
Differential Respiratory Responses to Incremental Positive End-Expiratory Pressure Among Healthy Adults, Cigarette Smokers, Electronic Cigarette Users, and Individuals with Asthma.
Amput Patchareeya, Kumfu Sirintip, Wongphon Sirima. Diseases (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/diseases14070248
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers compared how the lungs of healthy adults, cigarette smokers, electronic cigarette users, and people with asthma responded to incremental positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), a respiratory support technique. The study examined differences in respiratory mechanics, ventilation distribution, and lung aeration across these four groups to better understand how smoking and vaping may affect lung function under varying pressure conditions.
Tuberculosis burden attributable to smoking in China 1990-2021 and projections to 2040: A secondary analysis of GBD 2021 data.
Zhao Feng, Yan Tingyong. Tobacco induced diseases. 2026. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2023.1221334
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers examined how smoking has contributed to tuberculosis (TB) burden in China between 1990 and 2021 using global health data, with projections extending to 2040. Smoking is an established risk factor that worsens TB outcomes, and this analysis characterizes how the smoking-related TB burden has evolved over time in China's population. Understanding these trends helps public health planners anticipate future TB cases attributable to smoking and inform prevention strategies.
From paradox to biology: shared genetic architecture underlies the inverse association between smoking and Sjögren's disease.
van der Merwe Stefanie, Zuckerman Benjamin, Liu Weijie et al.. Rheumatology (Oxford, England). 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keag385
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers investigated why smoking appears to be associated with lower rates of Sjögren's disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting moisture-producing glands. Using genetic analysis, they found that this paradoxical protective association likely reflects shared genetic factors rather than a direct causal protective effect of smoking itself, identifying specific genetic regions that may explain the relationship between these two conditions.
Luteolin is associated with alleviation of cigarette smoke-induced cellular senescence and inflammation in mice involving the CREB/c-Fos/NQO1 pathway.
Tao Jieying, Zhao Kelan, Ni Yeling et al.. International immunopharmacology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2026.117177
Summary
Researchers investigated whether luteolin, a plant compound, could reduce cellular damage and inflammation caused by cigarette smoke exposure in mice. The study found that luteolin helped alleviate cigarette smoke-induced cellular aging and inflammatory responses through a specific cellular pathway (CREB/c-Fos/NQO1), suggesting it may have potential as a therapeutic agent for smoke-related lung diseases like COPD.
Modelling cigarette smoke-induced lung vascular dysfunction using an alveolus-on-chip.
Ravi Abilash, Gensheimer Tarek, van Schadewijk Annemarie et al.. Materials today. Bio. 2026 Aug. doi:10.1016/j.mtbio.2026.103429
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers developed a laboratory model using an alveolus-on-chip technology to study how cigarette smoke damages the small air sacs in the lungs and the blood vessels surrounding them. This advanced model allows scientists to better understand the interactions between lung cells and blood vessel cells, and how these interactions break down when exposed to cigarette smoke, which could improve our understanding of smoking-related lung diseases.
CXCL3 deficiency ameliorates COPD by suppressing cigarette smoke-induced NETs formation via MAPK signaling.
Zhou Yun, Xu Qiancheng, Wang Yani et al.. Molecular immunology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.molimm.2026.07.005
Summary
Researchers investigated how a protein called CXCL3 contributes to lung damage in COPD by promoting the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)—web-like structures released by immune cells that drive airway inflammation. The study found that removing CXCL3 reduced NET formation and airway inflammation in response to cigarette smoke exposure, suggesting that targeting this protein pathway could potentially slow COPD progression in smokers.
Association between conventional cigarette smoking behavior and peri-implantitis: a survey-based cross-sectional study.
Yang Hyeok-Jun, Kim Yeon-Tae, Lee Jae-Hong. BMC oral health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1186/s12903-026-09355-7
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This cross-sectional survey examined how the intensity of current smoking is associated with peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting dental implants. The research found that smoking exposure, measured by daily cigarette consumption, is significantly linked to increased risk of peri-implantitis, suggesting a dose-response relationship between smoking intensity and this oral health complication.
Policy—Endgame
A paradoxical plus for Parkinson's in UK's new 'generational smoking ban'.
Schwarzschild Michael A, Macklin Eric A, Morain Stephanie R et al.. Journal of Parkinson's disease. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1177/1877718X261469373
🔓 Open Access
Summary
The UK's new generational smoking ban, which prohibits tobacco sales to anyone born after 2008, may have an unexpected neurological benefit by potentially reducing the incidence of Parkinson's disease in future generations. While the primary intent of this landmark legislation is to reduce cancer, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, the research suggests a possible protective effect against neurodegenerative disease could be an additional public health advantage of this endgame tobacco control policy.
Policy—Marketing/Advertising
Plain Packaging: One of the Plain Simple Solutions for Nicotine Reduction in the Middle East.
Al-Hamdani Mohammed, Smith Steven M, Abouzoor Rana et al.. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070879
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Plain packaging of tobacco products is examined as a potential policy tool to reduce tobacco use in the Middle East, where conventional tobacco control measures like taxes, smoking bans, and warning labels have had limited effectiveness. The research suggests that removing brand imagery and colors from packaging could be an additional strategy to decrease the appeal and consumption of tobacco products in this region.
Characterizing the tobacco and nicotine information environment for information seekers on YouTube.
Silver Nathan A, Pearson George D H, Koris Kristiann et al.. Digital health. 2026. doi:10.1177/1461444820910505
Summary
Researchers examined the types of tobacco and nicotine content that appear on YouTube when people search for these topics, using Google Trends data and YouTube's search tools. The study characterized what information seekers are exposed to on the platform, which is important for understanding how tobacco and nicotine products are being promoted and discussed in digital spaces that many people, including youth, access daily.
Exploring the Discourse Around Zyn Nicotine Pouches on Instagram and TikTok: Content Analysis.
Tripathi Arpita, Hoffman Beth, Larkin Christine et al.. JMIR infodemiology. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1007/s40429-022-00463-2
🍁 Canadian 🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers analyzed how nicotine pouches (specifically Zyn) are discussed and promoted on Instagram and TikTok social media platforms. The study examined social media discourse around a product category experiencing rapid growth in sales, coinciding with rising concerns about youth exposure and use of these oral nicotine products.
Policy—Regulation
Research Progress on Nicotine Control Methods in Tobacco Products.
Xu Xu, Song Haoxuan, Chen Shuaiyu et al.. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/molecules31142465
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers reviewed various methods to control nicotine levels in tobacco products, examining both internal approaches (modifying tobacco components like acids, pH, moisture, and polyols) and external strategies. These nicotine control methods represent potential regulatory tools that could reduce the addictiveness of combustible tobacco products and support public health goals.
A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of State Flavored E-Cigarette Policy Implementation and E-Cigarette Use.
Kephart Lindsay, Chadwick Ginny, Stover Maeve et al.. American journal of preventive medicine. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2026.108523
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers used qualitative comparative analysis to examine how different U.S. state policies restricting flavored e-cigarette sales were designed and enforced, and how these differences affected e-cigarette use patterns. The study highlights that flavored e-cigarettes are a major driver of youth and young adult use, and suggests that policy effectiveness in reducing this use may depend on specific policy design features and implementation strength rather than the presence of restrictions alone.
FDA authorisation of Zyn nicotine pouches: cross-sectional analysis of public discourse on X.
Shanazari Eric, Whaley Reid C, Unger Jennifer B et al.. Tobacco control. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1136/tc-2026-060176
Summary
Following the FDA's January 2025 authorization of Zyn nicotine pouches, researchers analyzed public conversations on X (formerly Twitter) to understand how people were discussing this new product category. The study examined public discourse to identify how social media discussion may shape public perceptions about the safety and use of these newly authorized nicotine products.
Strategies to Support and Effectively Implement the Proposed FDA Nicotine Standard: An Official American Thoracic Society Workshop Report.
Kathuria Hasmeena, Jordt Sven E, Benowitz Neal L et al.. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/annalsats/aaoag205
Summary
The FDA has proposed a product standard to reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes and combustible tobacco products to minimally or non-addictive levels. This American Thoracic Society workshop report provides evidence-based strategies for supporting and effectively implementing this proposed nicotine standard to reduce tobacco addiction and smoking-related disease.
Policy—Smoke-free Environments
Expansion of smoke-free policies and their associations with observed smoking, policy support and voluntary home bans in South Korea: findings from the 2005-2020 ITC Korea surveys.
Yoon Wonjeong, Seo Hong Gwan, Lee Sungkyu et al.. BMJ public health. 2026. doi:10.1136/bmjph-2025-004616
🍁 Canadian
Summary
Over 15 years (2005-2020), South Korea progressively expanded smoke-free regulations and this analysis examined whether these policy changes corresponded with increases in observed smoke-free compliance, public support for smoke-free laws, and voluntary home smoking bans. The study tracked these outcomes across multiple survey waves to understand how regulatory expansion influenced both smoking behaviour and public attitudes toward smoke-free policies.
Policy—Taxation/Pricing
The Effect of Combustible Tobacco Tax Changes on Smoking Behaviours Among Young Adults: A Systematic Review.
Alblooshi Manal, Goh Ruth, Feliu Ariadna et al.. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntag164
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This systematic review examined how changes in combustible tobacco taxes affect smoking behaviours among young adults. The findings contribute to the evidence base on whether tax increases are effective policy tools for reducing tobacco use in this age group, which has important implications for public health strategies aimed at preventing smoking initiation and promoting cessation among younger populations.
State ENDS taxes and cigarette smoking in two-parent households.
Semprini Jason. The International journal on drug policy. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2026.105440
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This study examined how state taxes on electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) affect cigarette smoking rates in two-parent households, with particular attention to secondhand smoke exposure in children. The research investigates whether policies targeting ENDS through taxation might have unintended consequences on traditional cigarette smoking prevalence. Understanding these policy interactions is important for designing effective tobacco control strategies that reduce overall smoking-related harms to families.
Protection—Secondhand/Thirdhand Smoke
On the Detection and Scope of "Third-Hand Vaping": A Critical Review of the Literature.
Sussman Roberto A. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070940
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This critical literature review examines whether 'third-hand vaping'—residues left behind from vaping aerosol on surfaces and materials—poses health risks similar to third-hand smoke from cigarettes. The review assesses the current evidence base regarding the plausibility and scope of this exposure pathway to help clarify whether third-hand vaping represents a genuine public health concern requiring policy attention.
Ultrasonographic and elastographic findings of the liver of dogs exposed to cigarette smoke.
Gomes Felipe Gasparini Echem, Stanquini Camila Silveira, Feliciano Giovanna Serpa Maciel et al.. Brazilian journal of veterinary medicine. 2026. doi:10.1016/0887-2171(95)90011-X
Summary
Researchers used ultrasound and elastography imaging to examine liver damage in dogs exposed to secondhand cigarette smoke, building evidence that passive smoke exposure harms organs beyond the lungs. The findings in animals support concerns about health risks to non-smokers, including pets, who share living spaces with smokers.
Other / Uncategorized
Cigarette Butts as an Emerging Urban Habitat Driving Microbial Niche Differentiation.
Xie Ting, Xu Jia-Yang, Lin Da et al.. Research (Washington, D.C.). 2026. doi:10.34133/research.1380
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Cigarette butts function as a unique microbial habitat in urban environments, creating conditions that shape how microorganisms adapt and evolve. Understanding how bacteria and other microbes colonize and differentiate within discarded cigarette butts can provide insights into broader urban ecosystem health and microbial adaptation patterns in anthropogenic environments.
Correction: Imran et al. Nicotine Risk Education and Its Impact on Knowledge, Perceptions, and Behavioral Intentions: A Scoping Review of U.S. Studies. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2026, 23, 636.
Imran Rabia, Patel Aashka, Snell Morgan. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/ijerph23070939
SR 🔓 Open Access
Summary
This is a correction notice to a previously published scoping review examining U.S. studies on nicotine risk education and its effects on knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions. The correction addresses errors or updates in the original publication but does not present new research findings or substantive content for public health practice.
Young and Non-Smoking: An Unusual Case of Bronchial Carcinoid.
Constantin Ancuța-Alina, Cotea Antonio-Andrei, Mihălțan Florin Dumitru. Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland). 2026 Jul. doi:10.3390/diagnostics16142190
🔓 Open Access
Summary
This case report describes a rare diagnosis of bronchial carcinoid tumor in a 30-year-old non-smoking woman presenting with two years of recurrent stridor and wheezing. The case is notable for occurring in a young person with no smoking history or significant occupational exposures, highlighting that respiratory symptoms in non-smokers warrant thorough investigation to rule out uncommon malignancies.
Temporal alignment of UAV hyperspectral and phenotype data via autoencoders for predicting nitrogen and nicotine content in cured tobacco leaves.
Zhang Mingzheng, Kuai Yan, Chen Dong et al.. Plant methods. 2026 Jul. doi:10.1186/s13007-026-01570-1
🔓 Open Access
Summary
Researchers developed a method using drone-based imaging technology and artificial intelligence to predict nitrogen and nicotine levels in cured tobacco leaves by aligning hyperspectral data with plant measurements over time. This advancement in tobacco crop monitoring technology could improve quality assessment in tobacco production, though it does not directly address public health interventions, disease prevention, or tobacco control policy.
News Articles 15

Recent tobacco and vaping coverage from news sources.

▶ Browse 15 news articles
The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They’re SafeWired2026-07-03

ZYN nicotine pouches, the FDA found, can be advertised as a less-harmful option for adult smokers. But quitting all tobacco and nicotine products remains the best idea.…
Nicotine pouches, tobacco's latest ployStanford.edu2026-07-09

Highly addictive and surging in popularity, nicotine pouches are heavily marketed to teens and young adults. Here’s what else a Stanford Medicine expert thinks you should know.…
Coca-Cola’s New Global Identity Is Dangerously Close to the Most Toxic Brand in the WorldGizmodo.com2026-07-20

"Love that they just leaned into the fact that soda is the new cigarettes…"…
Smoking is having a cultural comeback. My dad's death will never make cigarettes cool.Business Insider2026-07-14

My father died of lung cancer caused by smoking. Seeing cigarettes become fashionable again feels deeply personal.…
Heavy marijuana smoking may increase cancer risk, researchers warnScience Daily2026-07-10

Heavy marijuana smoking may raise the risk of lung cancer and several head and neck cancers, according to growing research, but many important questions remain unanswered. Scientis…
E-cigarette Regulatory Gaps and Substance Use RecoveryPsychology Today2026-07-14

E-cigarettes are viewed by many, including the FDA, as a harm reduction for smokers. But with 86 percent of U.S. products being unregulated and smuggled, how can we be so sure?…
Canada is rolling out new graphic image warnings on cigarette packsCBC News2026-07-22

Experts have welcomed a new series of graphic images on cigarette packaging in Canada, which will be required by August 1, noting they lead to 'significant increases in the effecti…
The UK’s generational tobacco ban might not work. I’m supporting it anyway.MIT Technology Review2026-07-03

As the parent of two little girls, I often think about how their childhood is different from mine. The seven-year-old is learning about AI at school. The five-year-old is given int…
A 44-year-old mom felt out of breath while talking. It turns out she had stage 4 lung cancer, despite never smoking.Business Insider2026-07-21

A busy mom of three developed a persistent cough and had trouble breathing, despite never smoking. She was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer.…
Vapes to have less enticing names to protect children, under UK plansBBC News2026-07-10

People are being consulted about plans to stop vape companies using of enticing flavour descriptions that "attract" children into experimenting.…
SCOTUS Said You Can't Lose Gun Rights for Smoking Pot. But You Could Still Lose a Government License To Work.Yahoo Entertainment2026-07-20
Vaping on decline as young Australians shift to other nicotine productsABC News (AU)2026-07-16

Vaping and smoking rates are on the decline, but a shift to other nicotine products could represent an increase in average use.…
Why are healthy young non-smokers developing lung cancer?Science Daily2026-07-13

An unexpected study found that young non-smokers with healthier diets had higher rates of lung cancer, raising questions about whether pesticide exposure from conventionally grown …
MAGA-friendly vape firm caught buying toxins from China — as feds crack down on fake ‘made in America’ claimsNew York Post2026-07-17

Entrepreneur Brady Bates had promised to “Make Vaping American Again” by founding Fifty Bar, a disposable e-cigarette seller.…
Grim New Details From the Life of the Plaintiff in Social Media’s ‘Big Tobacco’ CaseGizmodo.com2026-07-05

The anonymous social media addiction lawsuit plaintiff known as “K.G.M.” has stepped out of the shadows.…
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