Tobacco Harm Reduction: A Need for Balance

Introduction

The concept of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) aims to mitigate the adverse health effects associated with continued smoking by encouraging adult smokers who will not quit to switch completely to reduced-risk^*† alternatives.^[1] We continue to demonstrate our commitment to THR through the development, scientific assessment and commercialisation of a multi-category portfolio of Smokeless Products. We recognise, however, that important stakeholders, for example The Royal College of Physicians,^[1] are critical of the genuineness of our THR efforts.

Stakeholder Perceptions

Our critics suggest that we manipulate the concept of THR by portraying our Smokeless Products as safer than smoking without sufficient long-term evidence. Critics also argue that our portfolio transformation is driven purely by profit motives and is aimed at misleading adult consumers about the risks associated with our Smokeless Products. Our critics have also raised concerns that our strategies target the underaged and adult never smokers, potentially creating new generations of nicotine consumers.^[1]