Expert: Sweden's success in reducing tobacco consumption cannot be ignored
2024-12-16 10:23:11
TiranaPost
After Sweden achieved official 'smoke-free' status, 'The World Vapers' Alliance' says Stockholm is an example the European Union can no longer ignore.
According to The World Vapers' Alliance, reducing the smoking rate to 5.3% is an extraordinary achievement. The Alliance's director, Michael Landl, says that other countries will struggle to meet this target by 2040. While the EU is predicted to miss this target for another 60 years. Therefore, alternative products are an example of success that the union can no longer ignore.
Landl praised Sweden's achievement, saying that it serves as a guide for the EU.
“Sweden’s success is the result of its practical and science-backed approach. Instead of rejecting less harmful alternatives such as snus, nicotine pouches or e-cigarettes, Sweden embraces these alternative products. This approach has saved countless lives and provides a roadmap for the European Union. It is time for the European Union to follow Sweden’s example in reducing smoking rates across Europe,” he said.
Some of the scientific findings from experts:
1. The overall smoking rate in Sweden fell from 5.6% in 2022 to 5.3% in 2024
2. The general population of Sweden, the male gender (4.9%) and people born in Sweden (4.9%) are considered 'smoke-free'
3. Overall nicotine consumption increased from 18.5% in 2022 to 20.2% in 2024
Sweden's strategy includes a progressive approach to harm reduction: Snus, nicotine pouches and alternative products are accessible to the consumer. In Sweden, these products are not taxed any higher than traditional cigarettes, unlike in many EU countries where they are either heavily taxed or banned. This practical and realistic approach has enabled smokers to switch to less harmful products, contributing significantly to Sweden's low smoking rate.
The alliance is urging the European Union to abandon its restrictive approach to new nicotine products and instead adopt Sweden’s consumer-friendly, evidence-based strategy. This approach has clearly demonstrated its effectiveness in rapidly reducing smoking rates and improving public health outcomes across the country.
