ahmedAs heated tobacco products like IQOS gain popularity as an alternative to traditional cigarettes, questions about their safety and health impacts are on the rise. Marketed as a “reduced-risk” option by its manufacturer, Philip Morris International, IQOS heats tobacco instead of burning it, producing an aerosol rather than smoke. But does this make it a safer choice? Let’s explore the current evidence and considerations surrounding IQOS and its potential harms.
What is IQOS?
IQOS (I Quit Ordinary Smoking) is a heat-not-burn device that heats tobacco sticks (known as HEETS) to approximately 350°C, releasing nicotine and other chemicals in an inhalable aerosol. Unlike e-cigarettes, which use e-liquids, IQOS relies on real tobacco, aiming to mimic the smoking experience with less combustion. This distinction is central to the claim that it reduces exposure to some harmful substances found in cigarette smoke.
The Evidence on Harm
Research on IQOS’s health effects is still evolving, with studies showing mixed results. Manufacturer-sponsored studies suggest that IQOS may lower exposure to certain toxicants compared to traditional cigarettes, such as reduced levels of tar and carbon monoxide. However, independent research paints a more cautious picture:
Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Risks: Studies indicate that IQOS exposure can impair lung cell function, increase oxidative stress, and affect cardiovascular health similarly to cigarettes. For instance, some research has shown that IQOS can cause inflammation and arterial stiffness, raising concerns about long-term heart and lung damage.
Comparison to Cigarettes: While IQOS may produce fewer harmful compounds than combustible cigarettes, it is not risk-free. Independent analyses have found that it still releases harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs), including nicotine, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde, which are linked to cancer, respiratory issues, and other diseases.
Secondhand Exposure: The aerosol from IQOS contains substances that can affect indoor air quality, posing potential risks to non-users, including children and pets. This challenges the notion that it eliminates secondhand smoke concerns.
Long-Term Uncertainty: Since IQOS is a relatively new product, long-term data on its health impacts are lacking. Decades of research were needed to fully understand the dangers of traditional smoking, and a similar timeline may apply here.
Additional Concerns
Beyond the chemical risks, there are practical hazards associated with IQOS. Reports have highlighted cases of accidental ingestion of IQOS tobacco sticks, particularly by children, due to the presence of metal pieces and compacted tobacco. This can lead to severe outcomes, including intestinal damage or, in extreme cases, death, underscoring the need for careful storage and use.
Public Perception and Policy
Many users perceive IQOS as less harmful than cigarettes, influenced by marketing claims and its cleaner appearance. However, this perception is not fully supported by independent evidence. Health organizations, including some professional societies, argue that the toxicity of new tobacco products should be evaluated against a baseline of no tobacco use, rather than just compared to cigarettes. This shift in perspective highlights the need for stricter regulations and more independent research.
What Can You Do?
If you’re considering IQOS or currently use it, here are some key takeaways:
- Prioritize Cessation: The most effective way to reduce tobacco-related harm is to quit entirely. Resources like nicotine replacement therapies, counseling, and support hotlines can help.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on emerging research, as the science on heated tobacco products is still developing.
- Protect Others: Avoid using IQOS in shared or confined spaces to minimize secondhand exposure risks.
