Some African countries have slammed higher taxes on tobacco products, but the move failed to deter smokers and yield the expected results. Data shows 146,000 Africans lose their lives annually from tobacco-related diseases. This means the fact that the African governments must explore new dimensions in their fight against tobacco.
The devastating impact of tobacco-related deaths tells us one thing: it is time to confront the misconceptions surrounding Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR). According to a report, tobacco-related deaths are estimated at 8 million lives annually, with 80 percent of these deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries. Africa has witnessed a staggering 104 percent surge in smoking rates in North Africa and the Middle East, and a 75 percent increase in sub-Saharan Africa since 1990.
In Africa, smokers are projected to increase from 66 million in 2015 to 84 million by 2025. But, the usage of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), also known as electronic cigarettes or vapes, which emerged as less harmful, appealing, and safer alternatives to smoking – due to the absence of the combustion of tobacco are significantly less harmful than traditional cigarettes.
However, misinformation and misconceptions about ENDS are rampant, hindering their adoption as a vital tool in the fight against tobacco. A recent survey by Ipsos, the world’s third-largest market research company, revealed that a paltry 15 percent of Nigerians, 22 percent of South Africans, and 31 percent of Kenyans believe that vaping is less harmful than smoking. An alarming 70 percent or more in these countries think that vaping is equally or more harmful than traditional cigarettes. The misperception is a major obstacle to the adoption of THR in Africa.
The consequences of this misperception are dire. Smokers who could benefit from switching to safer alternatives are being discouraged by misinformation and misconceptions. Healthcare professionals who could be advocating for THR are instead perpetuating harmful myths. And governments that could be implementing evidence-based policies are instead perpetuating the status quo.
There are also concerns that some tobacco companies and anti-smoking organizations might be making frantic efforts to undermine vaping as a safe alternative to traditional smoking.
It is time to shatter these misconceptions and embrace THR as a vital strategy to reduce tobacco-related deaths in Africa. In New Zealand, the primary backing for ENDS adoption as a smoking cessation pathway is traceable to a study that reveals that ENDS are 95% less dangerous than traditional smoking. The World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and THR offer a consumer-focused approach that can complement African governments’ cessation strategies. Currently, 43 African countries are signatories to the FCTC but they must promote accurate information and awareness. It will empower smokers to make informed decisions and opt for safer choices with minimal health risks.
Studies show ENDS are significantly less harmful than traditional cigarettes and vaping can reduce the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by up to 95 percent. ENDS have also been shown to be more effective than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in helping smokers quit.
Some African countries have slammed higher taxes on tobacco products, but the move failed to deter smokers and yield the expected results. Data shows 146,000 Africans lose their lives annually from tobacco-related diseases. This means the fact that the African governments must explore new dimensions in their fight against tobacco.
In Sub-Saharan African countries like Nigeria, tobacco use is rising significantly. Quitting smoking and adopting vaping or other tobacco alternatives is a crucial way to lower healthcare burdens and improve public health. Besides, Africa’s healthcare systems are already strained, posing a threat to health if a tobacco epidemic occurs.
Knowledge about Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) and the potential benefits of switching to less harmful nicotine options remains limited, even among smokers and healthcare professionals – making confusion and skepticism about THR thrive. It is imperative to counter these campaigns with a practical communication approach and strengthen public awareness of the lower risks of nicotine ENDS – thereby enabling smokers to make informed decisions and opt for safer choices with minimal health risks.
___________
ODEWALE Abayomi, a public affairs and policy analyst and researcher, is a fellow at the Foundation for Consumer Freedom Advancement and tweets @ODEWALEAbayomi
