Korean study finds more smokers switch to heated tobacco products

A South Korean study supports heated tobacco products (HTPs) as a tool for smokers to quit, reducing harmful chemicals without increasing smoking initiation. The innovation delivers nicotine without combustion, eliminating toxic smoke. Researchers found no gateway effect to smoking with HTPs, highlighting a potential harm reduction tool for adult smokers. Smoke-free products like HTPs have played a role in transitioning nearly a million former smokers in the Philippines. The study also noted trends in user demographics and market growth in Korea, suggesting public health benefits from HTP adoption. Policymakers can use these findings to shape tobacco regulations and taxation.