Exposing industry tactics on tobacco and nicotine products

The global tobacco epidemic continues to pose a substantial public health challenge, exacerbated by the strategic and evolving tactics employed by the tobacco and nicotine industry. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the industry's manipulative strategies designed to attract new users, particularly youth, perpetuate nicotine addiction, and undermine public health policies. Through analysis of marketing techniques, product innovation, misinformation campaigns, and interference in policy-making unravel the covert mechanisms used by tobacco companies. The findings underscore the urgent need for reinforced regulatory frameworks, public awareness initiatives, and international cooperation to combat industry influence and safeguard global health.

- BY Dr. DANIEL NIRANJAN

The tobacco industry has long been associated with deceptive practices aimed at maximising profits at the expense of public health. Despite global efforts to reduce tobacco use through frameworks such as the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), the industry continuously adapts its tactics to evade regulation and attract new consumers. This article explores the multifaceted approaches used by the tobacco and nicotine industry, focusing on the ways in which they mask the appeal of harmful products under the guise of innovation, harm reduction, and lifestyle enhancement.

Historically, the tobacco industry has engaged in a wide range of unethical practices, including manipulating scientific research, denying the health risks of smoking, and targeting vulnerable populations. Internal documents released through litigation have exposed deliberate strategies to maintain consumer dependence and obstruct regulatory measures. These precedents laid the foundation for the modern tactics employed by the industry. Youth remains a primary target for the tobacco industry due to their susceptibility to marketing and potential for long-term addiction. Companies employ colourful packaging, appealing flavours, and trendy imagery to make nicotine products attractive to younger demographics. Social media influencers and covert online campaigns further amplify product visibility among youth.