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Government lacks clear plan for NHS England abolition, MPs warn
A cross-party group of MPs has expressed concern over the government's decision to abolish NHS England without a clear plan for its replacement. The Public Accounts Committee has urged ministers to outline a detailed strategy within the next three months. The move, announced in March, involves transferring NHS England's functions into the Department of Health and Social Care and reducing staffing across 42 local health boards. While the government aims to eliminate "wasteful duplication" and save approximately £1.1 billion annually, MPs and health leaders have raised alarms about the lack of clarity and potential impact on frontline services.
Source: BBC News, 14 May 2025
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Comparing health risks: cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine pouches
The Standard published an article exploring the health risks associated with cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine pouches. It reported that cigarettes are significantly more harmful, linked to a wide range of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and lung issues. It stated that while vapes are generally less harmful, can potentially impact heart health, and contain high levels of nicotine, leading to nicotine addiction. Nicotine pouches also contain high nicotine levels that can cause mouth and gum irritation, and, like vapes, their long-term effects are still not fully understood. Both vapes and pouches were considered safer than smoking, but not without risks.
Source: The Standard, 14 May 2025
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Greener neighbourhoods linked to reduced smoking and drinking
A recent study led by the University of Exeter has found that individuals living in greener neighbourhoods are less likely to smoke and drink alcohol daily. The research analysed data from 18,838 adults across 18 countries and revealed that people residing in areas with abundant greenspace were 13% less likely to be current smokers and 31% less likely to consume alcohol every day compared to those in less green environments. Additionally, the study found that regular visits to natural settings were associated with a lower likelihood of smoking.
Source: University of Exeter, 14 May 2025
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Ministers revise NHS 10-year plan to address healthcare demands
The UK government's draft 10-year plan for NHS England is undergoing revisions due to concerns it lacks impactful and engaging policies. Despite the completion of an initial draft, officials acknowledged the need for improvements to address increasing healthcare demands and to ensure standout features that resonate with the public. A key proposal includes enhancing the NHS app to improve accessibility and service efficiency. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has also emphasised a need to shift from care in hospitals to community and preventive services. The plan may include commitments to redirect spending towards primary care, though discussions around setting specific expenditure targets for acute hospitals are ongoing. The full revised plan is expected to be unveiled in late spring.
Source: Financial Times, 14 May 2025
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Tobacco stocks fall as market conditions change
Tobacco company shares have fallen as easing trade worries encouraged investors to move their money into areas like technology and travel, which are seen as offering more growth. The wider consumer goods sector, which includes tobacco, has been one of the weakest parts of the US stock market so far this May.
Source: Forbes, 13 May 2025
Editorial note: This report has been included to provide insight into market trends and industry developments.
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ASH Daily News is a digest of published news on smoking-related topics. ASH is not responsible for the content of external websites. ASH does not necessarily endorse the material contained in this bulletin.
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