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Health leaders call for stronger government action on tobacco, alcohol and obesity
In a letter published in The Guardian, public health figures Hazel Cheeseman (ASH), Prof Sir Ian Gilmore (Alcohol Health Alliance), and Katharine Jenner (Obesity Health Alliance) have urged the UK government to take firmer action against industries driving preventable disease. They argue that measures such as minimum unit pricing for alcohol, a levy on tobacco industry profits, and mandatory reformulation of food and drink are essential to reducing the burden on the NHS and boosting productivity.
Mary Foy, MP and Co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group on smoking and health, also voices concern over the lack of urgency in advancing the tobacco and vapes bill, warning that industry influence continues to hinder progress. A proposed £700 million annual levy on tobacco profits is highlighted as a means of funding public health efforts while reducing corporate incentives to resist regulation.
Source: The Guardian, 14 September 2025
See also: ASH blog - Why Big Tobacco should pay for the cost of smoking | ASH webinar - Webinar: Tobacco industry levy: making the polluter pay
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Mexico's sugary drink tax hike prompts public health and profit debate
Mexico is set to nearly double its tax on sugary drinks as part of a broader strategy to combat the country's rising obesity and diabetes rates. The move, included in the 2026 national budget, follows earlier public health initiatives such as warning labels on high-sugar products and school junk food bans.
The finance minister Édgar Amador stated that the tax will reduce soft drink consumption, encourage healthier habits, and generate vital funding for health initiatives.
Some critics question the policy's effectiveness and accuse the government of using the tax primarily as a revenue source, despite officials promising to direct the revenue into public health campaigns, better disease monitoring and expanded treatment access.
Source: The Guardian, 14 September 2025
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Smoking linked to increased risk across all type 2 diabetes subtypes, study finds
New research presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes has revealed that smoking significantly raises the risk of developing all known subtypes of type 2 diabetes.
Drawing on data from long-term studies in Norway and Sweden, researchers found that both current and former smokers face a higher likelihood of developing the disease, with the strongest association seen in cases characterised by severe insulin resistance. Heavy smoking further amplified the risk, particularly among individuals with a genetic predisposition to diabetes or impaired insulin production. The findings also suggest that heavy use of the smokeless tobacco product snus may increase risk for more severe forms of the disease, compared to never users.
Researchers say the study underscores the need for targeted smoking cessation efforts, especially for genetically vulnerable groups.
Source: News Medical, 13 September 2025
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US cigarette inner liner market projected to grow steadily amid demand for premium packaging
The US cigarette inner liner market is expected to grow, with forecasts showing an increase from USD 85.7 million in 2025 to USD 124.5 million by 2035.
While originally designed to protect tobacco products, the article reports that inner liners are playing an increasingly important role in product branding and visual appeal. Manufacturers are using liners not only to maintain product integrity but also as a marketing surface to signal quality and reinforce brand identity. Aluminium foil remains the leading material due to its barrier properties and recyclability, while hard cigarette packs continue to dominate usage.
Despite public health pressures and shifting consumer habits, the market is expected to remain resilient through product innovation and strategic adaptation.
Source: Future Market Insights, 12 September 2025
Editorial note: This article has been included to provide insight into market trends and industry developments.
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Korean study finds nicotine dependence tied to poor health behaviours and mental health challenges
A study by researchers in South Korea has revealed links between nicotine dependence and a range of unhealthy lifestyle behaviours among adult smokers. Using the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence alongside detailed behavioural questionnaires, the research examined how addiction levels correlate with poor diet, irregular exercise, disrupted sleep, and increased vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and stress. These interconnected factors contribute to a cycle that reinforces both smoking and deteriorating health.
The findings underscore the need for integrated treatment strategies addressing both addiction and mental health, as well as early intervention through screening and digital health tools. Researchers advocate for holistic approaches in public health and clinical care to reduce the compounded risks faced by nicotine-dependent individuals.
Source: Bioengineer, 12 September 2025
See also: Jo M, Hong J, Im Y, et al. The association between nicotine dependence and health behaviors among adult smokers in Korea. Int J Ment Health Addiction. 2025. doi:10.1007/s11469-025-01548-5 | ASH - Smoking and Mental Health
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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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