No smoke, less harm: Advocating for a friendly harm reduction approach in Cameroon.

Each year, nearly 8 million people succumb to tobacco-related diseases, highlighting the urgent need for effective harm-reduction strategies.
Sweden offers a remarkable case study of the power of such strategies. The Scandinavian nation has achieved dramatic reductions in smoking rates and tobacco-related diseases by encouraging the use of safer, smokeless nicotine products. As a result, Sweden boasts significantly lower cancer rates and tobacco-related deaths compared to the rest of Europe. This "No Smoke, Less Harm" approach holds valuable lessons for countries worldwide, including Cameroon.
Six decades ago, 49% of Swedish men smoked cigarettes. Today, that figure has plummeted to just 5.6%, thanks to the widespread adoption of alternative nicotine products like snus, vapes, oral nicotine pouches, and heat-not-burn devices. These smokeless products deliver nicotine without the harmful by-products of combustion, thus significantly reducing health risks. Despite maintaining similar levels of nicotine consumption as other European countries, Sweden experiences 41% fewer cancer cases and less than half the tobacco-related deaths of its EU neighbours.
Cameroon, like many other countries, grapples with high smoking rates and the associated health burdens. The time has come for us to consider a similar harm-reduction approach tailored to our unique context. By adopting safer nicotine alternatives, we can save countless lives and alleviate the strain on our healthcare system.
Here’s what Cameroon can learn from Sweden’s success:

Differentiate Between Smoked and Smoke-Free Products: The key to Sweden’s success has been the acceptance and promotion of safer, smokeless nicotine products. These alternatives drastically reduce the harmful effects associated with traditional smoking. Cameroon can adopt a similar approach by educating the public about the benefits of these products and making them more accessible.

Increase THR Awareness and Adoption: Public awareness campaigns are crucial. Educating Cameroonians about the fact that nicotine, while addictive, does not cause cancer or the majority of smoking-related diseases, can help dispel myths and encourage the switch to safer alternatives.

Adopt a Risk-Proportionate Regulatory Framework: Cameroon’s regulatory bodies should develop policies that differentiate between high-risk smoked products and lower-risk smokeless alternatives. This would involve creating a supportive environment for the introduction and use of these safer products.

Combat Nicotine Misinformation: Misinformation about nicotine is rampant. Many people, including healthcare professionals, mistakenly believe that nicotine itself is the primary cause of smoking-related diseases. Correcting these misconceptions through education and clear communication is essential.

Tobacco harm reduction is not just a public health strategy; it’s an ethical imperative. Every individual has the fundamental human right to health. By providing access to safer nicotine products, Cameroon can respect this right and significantly reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases.
Sweden’s journey from a nation of smokers to a leader in tobacco harm reduction is an inspiring example for Cameroon. By embracing the principles of “No Smoke, Less Harm,” Cameroon can pave the way for a healthier, smoke-free future. It’s time to prioritize public health, correct misconceptions about nicotine, and provide safer alternatives for those who wish to consume it. Together, we can reduce the deadly toll of smoking and improve the quality of life for all Cameroonians.

By Dr. Eunice Kisifen Tatah