A leading public health expert has made a strong case for adopting a science-driven approach to reducing the harms caused by tobacco use among adult smokers in Nigeria and across West and Central Africa.
The Pragmatic Path for Smokers Who Can't Quit
In a recent thought-leadership commentary, Dr. Akinwande Puddicombe, the Scientific Engagement Manager for British American Tobacco (BAT) West & Central Africa, highlighted a critical public health challenge. He pointed out that despite widespread efforts to encourage cessation, millions of adult smokers continue the habit, largely due to nicotine addiction. He argued that these individuals need more realistic and accessible pathways to better health, grounded in evolving scientific evidence.
Dr. Puddicombe clarified that while completely stopping tobacco use is the ultimate goal, a significant number of adults find it extremely difficult to achieve, even with the help of traditional methods like nicotine patches, gums, or counselling. "Harm reduction provides a practical bridge," he explained. This strategy involves offering adult smokers access to scientifically substantiated, non-combustible nicotine products that drastically cut their exposure to the harmful toxicants found in cigarette smoke.
The Science Behind Safer Alternatives
"Combustion is where the problem lies," Dr. Puddicombe stated emphatically. He detailed that burning tobacco generates dangerous substances like tar and carbon monoxide, which are primary contributors to smoking-related illnesses. In contrast, modern reduced-risk alternatives—such as heated tobacco systems, nicotine pouches, and vapour products—deliver nicotine without the process of burning tobacco. Adults who switch completely to these alternatives can significantly lower their health risks.
The expert bolstered his argument by referencing landmark reports from globally respected institutions. He specifically mentioned conclusions from the Royal College of Physicians and Public Health England, which have affirmed that properly regulated vapour products and other innovative nicotine alternatives are substantially less harmful than continuing to smoke traditional cigarettes. Public health authorities are increasingly acknowledging the role of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) in alleviating the disease burden, especially for those who struggle to quit entirely.
Responsible Implementation is Non-Negotiable
Dr. Puddicombe was clear that the success of THR hinges on responsible execution. He addressed concerns about youth access head-on, stressing that protecting minors is paramount. "Harm reduction works when it is strictly targeted at adult smokers. Protecting young people is non-negotiable," he noted.
He called for robust enforcement frameworks that must include:
- Strict age-verification controls.
- Responsible marketing practices.
- Controlled distribution channels.
- Appropriate flavour regulations.
He cited examples from other nations where well-structured policies—featuring product standards, verified retail compliance, and ongoing monitoring—have allowed THR to support public health goals without encouraging uptake among the youth. This requires collaboration between regulators, manufacturers, retailers, and civil society.
Advocating for forward-looking policy reforms, Dr. Puddicombe urged Nigerian and regional regulators to create an environment that is evidence-based, encourages innovation, and aligns with global best practices in health. He concluded that health systems and governments stand to gain immensely from mainstreaming THR, through reduced disease prevalence, lower treatment costs, and improved long-term public health outcomes.
"As nicotine use continues to evolve, tobacco-control strategies must evolve with it," Dr. Puddicombe concluded. "The science is compelling, and when combined with strong regulation and continued education, Tobacco Harm Reduction can significantly support harm minimisation in our society."
