“The WHO must adapt swiftly to the changing landscape of tobacco use and embrace innovative strategies to protect public health.” – Dr Derek Yach
April saw calls for the World Health Organisation (WHO) to embrace cigarette alternatives that could save the lives of 100 million smokers. Dr Derek Yach – global health consultant, head of the WHO’s Tobacco Free Initiative when the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) was developed, and staunch tobacco harm reduction (THR) advocate – expressed concern that the FCTC seems to disregard scientific and technological advancements in the sphere of THR.
Globally, more than 120 million people use safer alternatives, which include heated tobacco products, e-cigarettes and oral nicotine pouches, in their attempts to refrain from smoking combustible cigarettes. The WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic 2023 states that such alternatives are more effective than traditional nicotine-replacement therapy in assisting smokers in their quit attempts.
The FCTC’s focus on bans, prohibitions and regulations thus impedes the effective quit attempts of millions of tobacco users by blocking their access to safer alternatives.
In response to a 2023 article published in The Lancet, The 20th anniversary of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control: hard won progress amid evolving challenges, Dr Yach proposes a three-point plan that could help prevent 100 million current smokers from dying prematurely between 2025 and 2060:
- Balanced regulation: Regulation should encourage innovation and not limit access to safer products.
- Science-based policies: Evidence must be the foundation of government policy, therefore fostering independence and informed choices.
- Incorporate THR: The FCTC should both recognise the role of safer alternatives in reducing harm and promote them.
Dr Yach emphasises, “Saving lives requires bold action. Let us unite in our commitment to a smoke-free future – one where harm reduction leads the way.”
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