The science and politics of vaping in the U.S

 The Washington Post has the story:

FDA lets Juul market vapes in the U.S. three years after trying to ban them
Federal regulators first announced a ban of Juul products in 2022, although a court order allowed them to stay on store shelves while the company filed an appeal.  By David Ovalle and Shannon Najmabadi
 

"The Food and Drug Administration has authorized Juul Labs to market its electronic cigarettes, years after the agency tried to ban the company’s products amid outcry over its role in fueling the popularity of vapes among young people.

"The agency, after reviewing scientific data provided by the company, concluded that Juul’s electronic cigarette device and refillable cartridges in tobacco and menthol flavors can help adult cigarette users reduce smoking or switch to less harmful products, outweighing the risk to youth.

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"The news comes a few days after the Vapor Technology Association, an industry group, said it launched a seven-figure ad campaign urging President Donald Trump to draw a distinction between vape products targeting youths and “safer, adult-focused alternatives” touted as smoking-cessation tools. Trump previously offered enthusiastic support for vaping and promised to protect the industry while campaigning in 2024.

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"A 2024 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey found vapes were the most common tobacco product used by middle- and high-schoolers. About 1.6 million students use electronic cigarettes, according to the survey — and nearly 90 percent of those who vape prefer the flavored liquids, the survey reported.

Thursday’s Juul decision drew immediate outcry from public health groups that assert vapes are addictive and can harm the development of maturing brains."