Cape Town, 14 July 2023 - Representatives of the 19 international harm reduction groups called on the South African Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Health to embrace vaping and other alternative nicotine products as tools to combat smoking.
South Africa is home to 11 million tobacco smokers, with 41% attempting to quit in the past 12 months. Studies show that most people who smoke relapse within eight days after a quit attempt and only 3%-5% of self-quitters are still smoke-free a year later.
The Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill
Youth Day is a significant commemorative event in South Africa annually on 16 June. It honours the country’s youth’s bravery and sacrifices during the Soweto Uprising in 1976. It also acknowledges the role played by young people in shaping the nation’s future.
Legislation that would force retailers to conceal cigarette displays and restrict vaping products has been called anti-science and counterproductive.
The South American Seminar on Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR), held in São Paulo on 11 May 2023, saw experienced speakers from fields such as public health, academia, and government gather to discuss key science topics related to THR.
Sweden's harm reduction strategy to combat tobacco-related deaths and improve public health is an inspiring model that has saved millions of lives. Sweden’s results towards achieving a smoke-free society is a success story and an exemplary model for countries around the world, especially in Africa to adopt in their ongoing efforts towards reducing the health impact of smoking.
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