Abstract

Tobacco smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke have been shown to negatively impact human health, including, but not limited to, increased risk of lung cancer, COPD, asthma and lower respiratory tract infections. Novel tobacco and nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, are promoted as less harmful, but whether they actually pose significantly lower health risks is contested. Use of all tobacco and nicotine products is higher among disadvantaged groups and contributes to health inequalities among people in different socioeconomic levels. Tobacco control policies have been shown to substantially lower the prevalence of tobacco use and reduce inequalities within and among countries, while different policies may be needed to address concerns regarding novel products.

Cite as: Filippidis FT, Laverty AA. Tobacco, novel tobacco and nicotine products, and respiratory health. In: Sinha IP, Lee A, Katikireddi SV, et al., eds. Inequalities in Respiratory Health (ERS Monograph). Sheffield, European Respiratory Society, 2023; pp. 80–88 [https://doi.org/10.1183/2312508X.10003922].