Pakistan needs risk-appropriate policy for alternative tobacco products

Dear Editor,

Over the last ten years, Pakistan has witnessed the emergence of vaping devices and nicotine pouches. These are called alternative tobacco products or part of tobacco harm reduction strategy aimed at reducing the health risks associated with tobacco use without necessarily requiring complete abstinence. Unfortunately, these have been introduced in a policy vacuum. Although their use is rising, it remains far below that of cigarettes. But fears and misconceptions continue to linger. There is an urgent need for risk-appropriate policy regarding the manufacture, import, sale and use of these products. The policy should make clear who can and who cannot use these products.