Tobacco harm reduction

This chapter discusses the issue of tobacco harm reduction. Tobacco harm reduction can be considered as one approach to reduce tobacco-caused mortality and morbidity, but should not be considered as the primary approach. To date the only known method for reducing population harm is to eliminate the use of tobacco products through prevention or cessation. Yet, in order to assess the potential public health impact of novel products being introduced onto the market, it is essential to continue to monitor and study the evolving characteristics of tobacco products. Some new products are advertised with either explicit or implicit claims of reduced exposure or health risks which are not evidence-based and which may mislead consumers into thinking they are using 'safer' or 'safe' products. In addition, some of these novel products are advertised to be used in situations where smokers cannot smoke which may contribute to sustained dependence and continued use of tobacco products. However, some of these products may lead to reduced health risks if smokers were able to switch completely to using these products and may lead to eventual cessation of all tobacco products.