A Matter of Dignity: Dr. Denzil L. Douglas Speaks About the Role of Tobacco Harm Reduction for Governments, Organisations and Individuals

How Reduced Harm Products Can Help Save Lives Around the World

The 2024 New Approaches Conference, also known as the New Approaches to Tobacco Control & Harm Reduction Summit, took place in New York this past September. Marking its third annual summit, the event coincided with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) and Climate Week, emphasising its global significance in public health discussions.

This year, the conference theme looked at Saving Lives in the 21st Century. It did so by exploring three key strategies to accelerate the end of smoking globally; country experiences integrating harm reduction to end smoking, research and science, and investments and innovation to achieve public health impact. 

A medical doctor by training and the former Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Douglas was quick to share how ‘it is essential to recognise harm reduction as a core element in our fight against the tobacco epidemic.’ While acknowledging that quitting smoking entirely is the best option, Dr. Douglas recognises that this is ‘incredibly difficult’ and that harm reduction is a ‘critical alternative.’

When speaking about how the government can play a role in promoting tobacco harm reduction through its policies, Dr. Douglas mentions acknowledging the continuum of risk, regulating reduced harm products (such as nicotine pouches) proportionately, using differential taxation and incentivisation, focusing on public education and health campaigns and, ensuring equitable access to harm reduction. The well-rounded and thorough nature of these approaches is promising for the future of THR in St. Kitts and Nevis. 

Dr. Douglas goes on to acknowledge the challenges and hurdles that come with promoting THR but also promisingly looks towards other countries who have successfully embraced harm reduction. He shares how ‘lessons from Sweden, New Zealand and the Czech Republic are worth replicating around the world – especially in low- and medium-income countries and small island states.’

This speech stands out for its clear, concise, and factual support of tobacco harm reduction – further backed by the powerful figure sharing these words. In the end, it comes down to Dr. Douglas’ assertion that, ‘at the core of this approach [THR] is a recognition of the dignity and humanity of every [person who smokes], addict and user of tobacco.’

To read the entire speech, click here