The UN is Urged to Embrace Tobacco Harm Reduction in Public Health Policy

Tobacco harm reduction (THR) has emerged as a crucial public health strategy, yet it remains widely misunderstood and often misrepresented. A coalition of international consumer advocacy groups is urging the United Nations to formally recognize THR, emphasizing its potential to reduce smoking-related harm.

A group of international consumer advocacy organizations has called on the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to health, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, to officially recognize tobacco harm reduction (THR) as an essential public health strategy. In a comprehensive letter, representatives from CASA Africa, ARDT Iberoamerica, and CAPHRA (Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates) argue that THR is fundamentally a public health initiative, not merely an industry-driven concept.

The coalition emphasizes that over 112 million consumers worldwide, predominantly former smokers, rely on safer nicotine alternatives. They point to successful examples in countries like the UK, Japan, New Zealand, and of course Sweden, which are on track to reducing smoking rates to below 5% by 2025. Particularly, Sweden’s achievement of a “smoke-free” status is largely attributed to its widespread use of snus and similar reduced-risk products.

The groups warn that overly restrictive policies, as seen in countries such as Australia and India, have inadvertently spurred black market growth, thereby undermining public health objectives. They argue that denying smokers access to less harmful alternatives compromises their right to health and personal autonomy. The letter, bolstered by scientific evidence from reputable health institutions, calls on the UN to adopt harm reduction principles in tobacco control comparable to those used for drug use and sexual health, ensuring policies are both evidence-based and supportive of public well-being.

An epidemic of misinformation
Sadly, misinformation about the relative safety of vaping products remains rife. A recent YouTube video featuring the renowned THR expert Dr. Derek Yach examined harm reduction’s evolution and vaping’s public health benefits amid South Africa’s flawed regulations. Yach explained the historical context, government misinformation, and the illicit market, and explained how medical stigma is impeding progress in his home country.

In South Africa, the argument that vaping is as dangerous as smoking has been used to support a strict regulatory approach, ignoring the independent research indicating that vapes are significantly less harmful than traditional cigarettes. Until recently, the lack of formal product standards in South Africa allowed low-quality vaping devices to enter the market. However, the South African Bureau of Standards has now introduced guidelines to ensure safety and consistency.

Misinformation about vaping products continues to mislead the public and hinder harm reduction efforts worldwide. Many believe vaping is as dangerous as smoking, despite scientific evidence showing it carries significantly fewer risks. This misconception fuels restrictive regulations, discourages smokers from switching to safer alternatives, and contributes to black markets with unregulated products. Government agencies, public health organizations, and media outlets must ensure accurate information reaches consumers.

Righting wrongs
Education campaigns should highlight credible research demonstrating the reduced harm of vaping compared to cigarettes. Additionally, healthcare professionals need proper training to provide evidence-based guidance rather than perpetuate stigma. Policymakers should base regulations on science, distinguishing between smoking and vaping rather than treating them as equally harmful. Transparency and responsible messaging are crucial to ensuring that smokers seeking alternatives are not deterred by fear-based narratives. Combatting misinformation will help improve public health by encouraging safer choices and reducing smoking-related diseases.