Dr. Ray Niaura, an expert in tobacco harm reduction at NYU, discussed Maine’s legislative proposals to raise taxes on cigarettes and reduced-risk products. He criticized the equalization of taxes on harm reduction products, arguing it undermines efforts to reduce smoking. Niaura highlighted that smoking disproportionately affects lower socioeconomic groups and small businesses. He emphasized the need for accurate communication about reduced-risk products, which have FDA authorization. Despite concerns about the tobacco industry’s credibility, Niaura believes regulation ensures product safety and encourages consumers to shift away from cigarettes.
Tropical Storms Karina and Lowell formed Thursday in the Pacific Ocean, both of which were expected to become hurricanes in the next few days, the National Hurricane Center said.
A new study suggests that El Ninos — the natural climatic chaos agent that pops up periodically and spikes global temperatures — are getting stronger because of human-caused climate change.
Two unvaccinated Pennsylvania residents have died after being infected with measles, the first U.S. deaths this year related to the contagious virus. State health officials announced the deaths Tuesday. They did not reveal any details about the people who died, other than that they lived in Lancaster County, west of Philadelphia.
