This archive report was first published on 16 September 2019.
Published on September 16, 2019, a study from Philip Morris International (PMI) titled 'Unsmoke: Clearing the Way for Change' highlighted the inadequate information available to smokers on how to quit smoking or switch to smoke-free products.
According to the study, almost half of former smokers (48%) who switched to smoke-free alternatives reported improved relationships with family and friends. Additionally, 45 percent of participants said that their social lives improved since switching from cigarettes and nicotine smoking.
However, the study also found that there are significant differences in social values among age groups. For instance, 74% of nonsmokers aged 21-34 years, 78% of those aged 35-54 years, and 79% of those aged 55-74 years reported that they dislike the smell of cigarettes on clothes.
Smokers also reported experiencing social awkwardness, with 53% saying they feel uncomfortable around nonsmoking friends and relatives even while not smoking. Furthermore, 68% of smokers stated that they would consider switching to better alternatives if they had clearer guidance on how these products differ from cigarettes.
Philip Morris International's Chief Operating Officer, Jacek Olczak, emphasized the need for a new global conversation based on scientific research and facts about smoke-free alternatives. He stated, “Currently, there is a tremendous amount of misinformation circulating about smoke-free products, and this is causing confusion. It is one of the biggest hurdles the world faces in becoming smoke-free. The reality is there are better options available to adult smokers who don’t quit. There urgently needs to be a new global conversation based on scientific research and facts about these alternatives.”
