Recently, the British Times reported that tobacco companies were accused of funding studies that underestimated the risks of e-cigarettes, including on the smoking behavior of children and teenagers. At the same time, tobacco companies also support social movements that lobby for their interests.
The report points out that tobacco companies use these paid studies to resist strict regulations on e-cigarettes in the UK. One example is an article by researcher Peter Lee, who questions other scientists' conclusions that e-cigarette use may increase the likelihood of switching to traditional cigarettes. However, the Times pointed out that Mr. Li worked closely with tobacco companies and completed some of his papers with employees of Philip Morris International (PMI).
In addition, Big Tobacco pays doctors, scientists and “independent” activist groups to oppose restrictions on e-cigarettes. Hundreds of doctors have taken part in training on how to quit smoking through the use of e-cigarettes, led by a doctor who has received millions of pounds in funding from PMI. This situation is not unique.
Another tobacco company, British American Tobacco, actively participated in the creation of an organization called the "Global Vapers Alliance", which is also involved in lobbying for e-cigarette interests and publishes specialized magazines; another called "E-cigarette Free" Smoking World, an organization that promotes the use of e-cigarettes as an alternative to traditional cigarettes, is also supported by PMI and has received approximately $400 million in funding from the company.
Experts have expressed concern as e-cigarette use becomes increasingly common among children and teenagers in the UK. According to one study, 20.5% of Britons under 18 will have tried e-cigarettes by 2023, a significant increase from 15.8% in 2022 and 13.9% in 2020.
