Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable diseases worldwide. From heart disease to lung cancer, millions of lives are lost each year due to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking-related diseases claim nearly 8 million lives globally every year. In Pakistan, tobacco use is a significant public health concern, cutting short thousands of lives annually. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for effective strategies to reduce the harm caused by smoking.
One such strategy gaining momentum is Tobacco Heat Reduction (THR). Researchers and policy advocates are emphasizing the importance of THR products, such as modern oral nicotine pouches, which pose significantly fewer health risks compared to traditional cigarettes. Developed nations around the world have embraced THR products—like ZYN and Velo nicotine pouches—to help lower smoking rates.
Globally, experts are advocating for THR as a crucial tool to mitigate the health risks linked to smoking. As awareness of THR grows, several governments and health authorities are encouraging smokers to switch to these reduced-risk alternatives.
Countries like Sweden and New Zealand have seen significant reductions in smoking rates by adopting these strategies. Sweden, for example, is on track to become the first country to achieve “smoke-free” status—defined as less than 5% of the population smoking—far surpassing the EU average of 18%. While quitting tobacco entirely remains the ideal solution, THR products provide a less harmful alternative for smokers who struggle to quit. The mission is clear: save lives by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals while offering better options for smokers.
In Pakistan, local experts are also joining this movement. A recent call from public health experts stressed the need to adopt a tobacco-harm reduction strategy to save lives. According to a report published in the media, experts are advocating for the promotion of THR products, which they estimate could save 1.2 million lives across the country.
A related study, co-authored by researchers from Aga Khan University, found that second-hand smoke exposure affects 95% of children in Pakistan and Bangladesh—a troubling discovery that further underscores the need for immediate action.
As we look toward a healthier future, raising awareness about THR and encouraging smokers to switch to safer alternatives is critical. The shift towards tobacco harm reduction could be the key to preventing further loss of life, both globally and in Pakistan.
This article is written by M Salman Khan. He is a freelance writer with a keen interest in Science and Technology.