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Switching to smokeless alternatives like nicotine replacement therapy can lead to a significant reduction in cancer-related deaths, experts emphasized on Wednesday. According to Professor R Zimlichman from Tel Aviv University, implementing harm reduction policies inspired by successful models in countries like Sweden, Japan, and the UK could substantially lower smoking rates and associated cancer cases.
Tobacco consumption remains a major contributor to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally. In India, where an alarming 1.4 million cancer cases were reported in 2022, tobacco stands out as a primary culprit. Despite adhering to WHO tobacco control policies, India ranks second in Asia for cancer burden, indicating the need for alternative approaches beyond mere bans.
Sweden’s remarkable reduction in smoking rates from 15 percent to 5.6 percent over 15 years, resulting in a 41 percent lower cancer incidence compared to the EU, serves as a beacon of success in harm reduction strategies. Similarly, Japan witnessed a significant decrease in smoking rates between 2016 and 2019, with nearly three in 10 Japanese smokers quitting cigarettes.
Drawing inspiration from these success stories, Norway recently announced plans to legalize nicotine-containing alternatives in 2024, further validating the efficacy of harm reduction initiatives. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), encompassing various forms like patches, inhalers, gum, tablets, and nasal sprays, offers a viable pathway for individuals struggling to quit smoking.
Dr. Chandrakant S Pandav, a Padma Shri Awardee and Global Public Health Expert, stressed the importance of acknowledging harm reduction’s critical role in mitigating tobacco’s impact on cancer. He highlighted Norway’s decision as a testament to the significance of harm reduction in averting the grip of tobacco addiction.
As one in nine Indians faces the risk of developing cancer in their lifetime, embracing harm reduction strategies becomes imperative for public health. By providing individuals with safer alternatives, harm reduction paves the way for a healthier future, empowering millions grappling with tobacco addiction to make informed choices.
