The FDA has proposed drastically lowering nicotine levels in cigarettes sold in the U.S. in order to reduce addiction and prevent diseases caused by smoking. Smoking kills over 480,000 Americans each year, and reducing nicotine levels could save millions of lives. The proposed limit for nicotine in cigarettes is 0.07 milligrams, a 95% reduction from the current average of 13 milligrams. The rule, if finalized, would give companies two years to make necessary changes. The proposal does not include e-cigarettes, vape products, hookahs, smokeless tobacco, or nicotine replacement pouches. Public health officials largely welcome the proposal, but some, like the American Lung Association, believe it does not go far enough and should include all tobacco products. The FDA estimates that the nicotine cap could prevent millions of young people from becoming addicted to smoking and help millions of current smokers quit. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, a former FDA commissioner, believes the proposal is an important step in transitioning smokers away from combustible cigarettes towards safer alternatives. However, it is important to note that e-cigarettes and other products not covered under the proposal may still pose health risks due to the presence of other toxic chemicals. The public has until mid-September to weigh in on the FDA’s proposal for reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes.
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