WHO warns of surge in nicotine pouch use among youth worldwide

The World Health Organization issued a warning about the rapid growth of nicotine pouches, small discreet sachets placed between the gum and lip that deliver nicotine. Sales exceeded 23 billion units in 2024, a rise of more than 50 % year‑on‑year, and the global market is projected at nearly $7 billion in 2025. The WHO notes that around 160 countries have no specific regulations for these products, only 16 prohibit them and a few dozen impose any restrictions.

The agency highlights that the products are marketed with sweet flavours, candy‑like packaging and social‑media promotion aimed at adolescents and young adults, fostering addiction and exposing developing brains to nicotine. Health risks cited include increased likelihood of long‑term dependence, impaired attention and learning, and heightened cardiovascular danger. The WHO calls on governments to tighten regulations, ban appealing flavours, restrict advertising, and consider taxation to curb youth access.