A science-based product regulation: the time has come to reduce toxic emissions to reduce harm
October 21, 2025 by frontiersin.org
A science-based product regulation: the time has come to reduce toxic emissions to reduce harm
The focus on tobacco control has been on reducing usage rather than regulating product toxicity. Implementing FCTC's Articles 9 and 10 to lower toxic emissions has been delayed, highlighting the need for setting emission thresholds for toxicants. A shift towards a science-based regulatory approach, targeting priority toxicants, can accelerate harm reduction for the 1 billion smokers worldwide. The upcoming 11th FCTC Conference of the Parties in 2025 offers an opportunity to develop a toxicity reduction strategy. A dynamic, evidence-based regulatory framework, similar to other sectors, can enhance public health by categorizing products based on emission benchmarks and promoting harmful product awareness through clear labeling.
