On the back of three years of the ban on Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDs), the fifth edition of ET Consumer Freedom Conclave, has organised an interactive thought leadership platform, saw insightful discussion and debate on the need for an effective and cohesive smoking cessation approach to improve public health was held.
Based on the theme of ‘Adopting a Smoking Cessation Approach to Save Lives’, the summit saw participation from eminent regulatory voices, policymakers, academia, scientific and medical experts, legal, think tanks, and consumer organizations amongst others who shared their perspectives on consumer freedom and the need forlegitimizing alternate harm reduction products to aid smokers to reduce or eliminate their health risks.
Delivering his keynote address,Prof. M.V. Rajeev Gowda, Ex-Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha said, “India can take many learnings from other countries which are taking strong strides in their journey to build a smoking cessation category by adopting science-backed policiesenabling consumers to makea choice to switchto less harmful alternatives.Using ENDs orheat-not-burn devices can significantly reduce harm, and improve public health. It is time to re-think this ban and rather adopt the policy of regulation.” The summit also highlighted some consumer stories where individuals shared their experiences around smoking and their willingness to quit, however despite trying alternatives such as lozenges, patches etc. they were unsuccessful in their endeavor.
