- Nationwide study aims to understand and evaluate local patterns and trends in the perception, use, and regulation of tobacco and tobacco harm reduction products (THRPs).
- Respondents cited health as their top reason for quitting or switching to THRPs. While the majority recognize the dangers of nicotine dependence, the health risks of THRP use are just as alarming.
- The rising costs of cigarettes and THRPs do not hinder smokers from maintaining their habit.
Philippine research and development group Alitaptap Foundation, Inc., in partnership with Global Action to End Smoking (GAES), present a new study titled, An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Policies, Regulations, and Use of Tobacco and Tobacco Harm Reduction Products on Reducing Tobacco Consumption and Promoting Public Welfare.
The study aims to understand and evaluate local patterns and trends in the perception, use, and regulation of tobacco and tobacco harm reduction products (THRP).
In May 2024, the Alitaptap research team conducted face-to-face interviews with 1,979 respondents across various social sectors in the country’s major islands, from the Ilocos to Metro Manila, and from Negros Occidental to Marawi City.
Findings reveal that the smokers and those who had quit smoking–largely male, single, and employed–are nearly equal in number. The majority started the habit at 18, influenced by friends or family members who smoke; while those who quit cited health reasons and encouragement from family members. A significant number who claimed it difficult to go “cold turkey” have resorted to THRPs, exclusively or as “dual users,” combining regular cigarette sticks with vape products or e-cigarettes.
Health warnings on the risks of nicotine consumption have gained substantial ground but the dangers of THRPs need further highlighting. Despite awareness that THRPs are as addictive as traditional tobacco products, the respondents still do not realize that they can develop tuberculosis, mouth cancer, asthma, or brain disorders with the habitual use of such products.
While health concerns are the primary reason for quitting, respondents suggest that imposing smoking bans in more areas of the country and increasing cigarette tax rates could further discourage the use of tobacco and THRPs. Currently, smokers in the research sample do not seem concerned about the financial costs of their habit, spending a weekly average of P436.55 on cigarettes and P514.32 on vape products.
Mr. Rovin Feliciano, President of Alitaptap Foundation, expressed deep appreciation for the trust that GAES has placed in their research capabilities. “Our team of seasoned experts worked closely with our growing network of local government partners to explore the topic. We hope
that our insights will aid government and private institutions develop effective approaches to educating people on the impact of smoking on their health, finances, and social interactions.”
The release of the full study, An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Policies, Regulations, and Use of Tobacco and Tobacco Harm Reduction Products on Reducing Tobacco Consumption and Promoting Public Welfare, will be announced in the Facebook page of Alitaptap Foundation
ABOUT ALITAPTAP FOUNDATION, INC.
Alitaptap Foundation, Inc. is a Philippine research and development group on a mission to empower leaders from the government and private sectors to strategically work together towards building peaceful, happy, and progressive communities. Like its namesake, the firefly, Alitaptap sheds light on specific needs of communities by conducting data-driven studies and developing capacity-building programs that would bring about reforms in the delivery of vital services in the areas of good governance, education, health, and livelihood creation.
ABOUT GLOBAL ACTION TO END SMOKING
Global Action to End Smoking is an independent, U.S. nonprofit grantmaking organization that funds and empowers Health & Science Research, Cessation Education, and Agricultural Transformation designed to end the smoking epidemic and related death and disease.
