Cigarette smoking and tobacco use are global problems. However, a closer look at the numbers could indicate some improvement in recent times. According to a study on tobacco products published by BMJ Journals, the consolidation of the tobacco industry into monopolies, and the introduction and marketing of new forms of nicotine delivery, have led to a global decline in tobacco use — from 33% in 2000 to 23.5% in 2018.
We've previously written about the role of tech in public health, such as vaccination, as part of the many measures against the Coronavirus pandemic. As with other matters related to public health, emerging technologies and innovations in the field should be transparent to avoid public skepticism. Today, we'll look at current emerging technologies and innovations for nicotine users and why they have become an alternative to traditional cigarettes:
E-cigarettes
E-cigarettes or electronic cigarettes rose to popularity as an affordable, convenient, and rechargeable alternative to their traditional counterpart. E-cigarette brands such as Juul topped the US vaping market five years ago thanks to its availability of flavors. Study results and research on the long-term effects of vaping and the use of electronic cigarettes are scarce due to it being a new technology. Critics insist that they are just as harmful as ordinary cigarettes, while others believe it is likely less dangerous. Today, the company behind the innovative trend, Juul Labs, has come under fire for announcing hundreds of layoffs amidst government bans, lawsuits, and increased competition. The company has also faced criticisms for products containing high nicotine levels.
Heated tobacco products (HTPs)
HTPs may look similar to e-cigarettes but operate much more similarly to traditional cigarettes than electronic ones. While both e-cigarettes and HTPs are considered alternatives to smoking, HTPs use an internalized heat-control system that doesn't burn but heats real tobacco. Meanwhile, e-cigarettes vaporize e-liquid solution that contains nicotine and flavors. In 2021, the global HTP market was valued at $27.4 billion, dominated by leading companies such as Philip Morris International and British American Tobacco. As with e-cigarettes, the rise of heated tobacco products is attributed to the steady decrease in traditional cigarette sales in high-income countries, as they are viewed as potentially healthier and more convenient alternatives.
Nicotine pouches
The last form of innovation for nicotine users comes in the shape of oral nicotine and tobacco products. In a sea of cigarette alternatives, oral products have become a preference for those wanting a genuinely smokeless alternative. Nicotine pouches are little tobacco-free pouches placed between your upper lip and teeth, which release nicotine for an hour. If you buy the bestselling nicotine pouches online at Prilla, it means choosing the top, most discreet pouches that produce no irritating drip or teeth discoloration. Brands like ZYN, ON!, and VELO were developed specifically with the American consumer in mind to cut down their nicotine intake or enjoy a nicotine experience without the downsides of tobacco. Reminiscent of e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches are trendy because they come in various flavors, albeit containing lower-level nicotine strengths. They are easy to carry and travel with, and you can buy them per can or in packs of 5 and 10 — even 30. Today, they have become an alternative for nicotine users and a gateway for those looking to quit the habit.
As these are new technologies and innovations, there is limited research on their long-term effects. It's hard to say or predict what the future of nicotine alternatives may look like. Still, it's important to note the gradual shift towards smokeless and less health-threatening options is essential, as we live in an unprecedented post-pandemic world.
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