Scientific Conferences: An Opportunity for Discussion and Information Sharing

Typically, conferences involve presentations; panel discussions; workshops and exhibitions related to subject topics as stipulated by the conference organisers.

We see conferences as an excellent opportunity to be open and transparent with our science that will actively contribute to the dialogue on Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR).

In 2023, we attended more than 50 conferences, presenting on the science behind our Smokeless Products. These conferences ranged from large general conferences on toxicology to more specialist events on nicotine and tobacco science. Like our publications, the material we present externally is made available through the library of our dedicated science website, bat-science.com.

These conferences also represent a fantastic opportunity to engage with other stakeholders that are interested in scientific research into tobacco and nicotine. Discussions amongst conference attendees can lead to new professional connections, diversified viewpoints, and innovative thinking.

While, as with some peer-reviewed journals, there are conferences that do not allow tobacco industry participation, we are gratified that there are many more organisations—from pro-THR organisations to fundamental science groups—that welcome all interested stakeholders to contribute to the discussion of THR and nicotine science. Our science contributes to the larger body of evidence around Smokeless Products, and conference presentation and engagement gives us the opportunity to demonstrate to the wider scientific community the rigour and transparency of our research.

We welcome the opportunity to contribute to an even broader range of open conversations on THR, with interested parties of all viewpoints given both access and a platform to present the evidence that can stimulate further constructive dialogue. In contrast to closed events, which largely involve researchers' sharing opinions and data with other parties with whom they already agree, open participation could allow for industry science to be judged on its merits, rather than simply its source. This, in turn, could lead to an even more robust and scrutinised evidence base relating to THR.