Pakistan’s New Tobacco Control Strategy: Promoting Oral Nicotine Pouches

According to Pakistani media PakObserver, Pakistan has an alarmingly high smoking rate of 24%. The problem of smoking addiction has long been a stumbling block for public health and economic development. Smoking-related diseases, such as heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, stroke, and tuberculosis, inevitably place greater pressure on the already overburdened healthcare system, leading to a reduction in population and severe economic losses.

Although the Pakistani government has made efforts to curb smoking, it has still fallen short of its tobacco control goals. The existing tobacco control methods are clearly outdated and ineffective. However, a glimmer of hope is emerging in the form of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR), and oral nicotine pouches are seen as a viable alternative.

According to the newly released global report “Incorporating Harm Reduction into Tobacco Control”, THR interventions, including the promotion of nicotine pouches, are expected to effectively reduce premature deaths caused by smoking. With nicotine pouches, consumers can satisfy their nicotine cravings without being exposed to the harmful substances produced by combustion.

If the entire population of Pakistan adopts nicotine pouches, the current worrying smoking rate of 34.3% could be reduced to 8% by 2045 and further to 5% by 2060. This would have a significant impact on the current smoking mortality rate, decreasing from the existing 163,000 per year to 114,000 in 2045 and even 76,000 in 2060. Additionally, the economic burden of smoking in Pakistan is as high as Rs 615.07 billion (about $3.85 billion), accounting for 1.6% of the country’s GDP.

However, the path to a smoke-free future is not without obstacles. Despite evidence of the effectiveness of tobacco harm-reduction products, policymakers are cautious. To address this issue and reduce the smoking rate, a multi-faceted approach must be adopted. Tax reductions for THR alternatives should also be implemented to support their availability and popularity.

Promoting alternatives like nicotine pouches can alleviate Pakistan’s economic burden by reducing the medical costs associated with treating smoking-related diseases. By encouraging the acceptance of such smokeless products, policymakers can allocate resources to other areas of the economy. Including nicotine pouches as an option can help smokers meet their nicotine needs while avoiding the harmful substances produced by combustion.

Pakistan’s exploration of using oral nicotine pouches as a new tobacco control strategy holds great promise. While there are challenges ahead, if properly implemented, it could lead to significant improvements in public health and a reduction in the economic strain caused by smoking. The success of this strategy depends on a combination of factors, including effective policy-making, public awareness campaigns, and continued research into the long-term effects of nicotine pouches. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the government, healthcare providers, and the public, to work together to achieve a smoke-free and healthier Pakistan.