The current tobacco control landscape in Pakistan reveals the ongoing struggle to achieve significant reductions in smoking rates. Despite stringent taxes and regulatory measures, smoking remains a significant health burden, underscoring the need for a new approach. Adopting tobacco harm reduction (THR) as a formal strategy can bring about fundamental change, providing a path to harm reduction while preserving individual choice.
Incorporating THR strategies—such as promoting access to science-backed options such as heated tobacco products, vaping, and oral nicotine pouches—can provide smokers with a viable path away from smoking.
A strong framework would ideally position THR as a complement to traditional tobacco control. The basis of this framework should include a comprehensive examination of the effectiveness of THR products and their role in reducing smoking rates. Creating an evidence-based approach requires not only government buy-in, but also collaboration with various stakeholders. Their insights can help ensure harm reduction strategies are consistent with public health goals and individual needs.
Involving healthcare professionals ensures that the medical community is prepared to guide smokers in adopting better alternatives. Public health advocates can contribute valuable perspectives on broader societal impacts, while NGOs can play a role in educating the public and addressing misconceptions. This multi-stakeholder approach can help build public confidence and develop comprehensive policy that reflects collective harm reduction goals.
Famous medical scientist, Dr. Miram Rajanin, from Kazakhstan says: “To reduce the risk of oral diseases and general health disorders, it is recommended to quit smoking. In cases where the patient fails or does not want to give up this harmful habit, it is initially recommended to go to non-combustible alternatives, such as nicotine patches, chewing gum, and tobacco heating systems.
Countries such as Sweden and Japan have demonstrated the effectiveness of THR products, where smoking rates have declined significantly since better alternatives were introduced. This decrease confirms the potential impact that these alternatives can have in reducing the prevalence of smoking.
Any effective policy requires a system to monitor and evaluate results. Regular evaluation will allow for necessary adjustments to be made to ensure the policy remains adaptable and effective. Transparent reporting of these evaluations will also strengthen public confidence in THR’s strategies and demonstrate the government’s commitment.
Integrating THR as a cornerstone of tobacco control policy holds enormous potential for long-term impact. By creating an evidence-based regulatory framework that prioritizes harm reduction, Pakistan can move closer to a smoke-free future.
Introductory account:
The writer is a freelance journalist from Karachi who contributes articles advocating for better alternatives to reduce the harms associated with smoking.
