Africa: Nicotine Isn't the Enemy - World Expert Corrects a Century of Misconception
October 15, 2025 by allafrica.com
Africa: Nicotine Isn't the Enemy - World Expert Corrects a Century of Misconception
Misinformation about nicotine causing cancer persists among the public and medical professionals, as highlighted by Professor David Khayat in a Rutgers-led study. Despite decades of using nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation, misconceptions remain. Khayat emphasizes lifestyle factors like diet and exposure to carcinogens in the prevalence of cancer. He advocates for oncologists to educate on Tobacco Harm Reduction, emphasizing tobacco's significant role in cancer mortality. The economic burden of tobacco-related cancers in Africa is a growing concern due to rising smoking rates. Khayat urges proactive measures to prevent a looming cancer epidemic on the continent.
