Philip Morris International (PMI) has released promising results from a recent cross-sectional clinical study examining the impact of switching from cigarettes to the tobacco heating system (THS), commercialized under the brand name IQOS.
The study was conducted in 37 healthcare institutions across six countries in Asia and Europe, in total, 982 adult participants were enrolled, split among 3 groups: current smokers, THS users, and former smokers. Participants were matched based on the product use history, age, region (Europe/Asia), and gender for evaluation of the study objectives.
The study demonstrates significant differences in biomarkers of potential harm (BoPH) associated with smoking-related diseases in participants who switched from cigarettes to the THS compared with participants who continued to smoke cigarettes.
This cross-sectional risk marker study found that compared with current smokers, participants who had switched from cigarettes to THS for at least 2 years showed favorable differences in nine BoPH. Importantly, the results were similar to those observed in former smokers.
These latest results add to the existing evidence that substantiates the risk reduction potential of THS use in comparison with cigarette smoking.
Key findings from the study include:
Favourable Differences in Biomarkers: Participants who switched to THS showed significant improvements in nine BoPH related to biological pathways impacted by cigarette smoke (inflammation, oxidative stress, oxygen transport, genotoxicity, lipid metabolism, endothelial function, and blood clotting potential), as well as better cardiovascular and respiratory function compared with current smokers.
Damilola Fajuyigbe, Head of Scientific Engagement MEA at PMI, commented on the study’s findings: “We are encouraged by the promising results from our recent cross-sectional clinical study, which examined the impact of switching from cigarettes to the tobacco heating system, commercialized under the brand name IQOS. The findings indicate significant potential to contribute positively to public health in the GCC region. By offering a scientifically substantiated, reduced-risk alternative to cigarettes, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of our communities. These results underscore our dedication to innovation and our mission to create a smoke-free future.”
The study builds on previous research, including a 6-month exposure response study and its extension, which demonstrated similar trajectory changes in BoPH for those who predominantly switched from smoking to THS. The new data further solidify the evidence supporting the harm reduction potential of THS after at least two years of real-life use.
Quitting tobacco and nicotine altogether is the best choice a smoker can make for their health. While THS is not risk free and provides nicotine, which is addictive, the totality of PMI’s clinical program to date has demonstrated that adult smokers who switch to THS are exposed to fewer and lower levels of harmful chemicals and show favourable changes in multiple BoPH associated with smoking-related disease. These conclusions are consistent with the results observed in former smokers. Health outcome studies are still needed to provide conclusive evidence that switching from cigarette smoking to THS use reduces the risk of smoking-related disease.
