Knowledge Action Change Launches Free Tobacco Harm Reduction Course for Public Health
In a significant move to combat smoking-related illnesses and fatalities, Knowledge•Action•Change (K•A•C), a UK-based public health agency, has launched a free online course titled Understanding Tobacco Harm Reduction. This initiative aims to educate individuals about alternative methods of nicotine administration that pose lower health risks. Tobacco-related diseases are responsible for approximately eight million deaths worldwide each year, yet nicotine itself is not the primary culprit. The new online course seeks to promote awareness of safer nicotine products, including e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, nicotine pouches, and snus. The focus is on encouraging smokers to transition to these safer alternatives as part of a broader global strategy for tobacco harm reduction (THR).
The Understanding Tobacco Harm Reduction course was developed in response to the urgent need for effective public health interventions to mitigate the effects of tobacco use. Building on the success of K•A•C's Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholarship Programme, which has trained over 100 advocates and researchers in 55 countries, the course is now accessible to everyone who wants to learn more about THR. With contributions from an array of public health experts—including researchers, healthcare professionals, and educators—the course offers evidence-based insights into tobacco harm reduction strategies that could save lives.
This free course is especially significant for individuals unable or unwilling to quit smoking, providing them with vital knowledge about alternative nicotine delivery systems. Professor Gerry Stimson, co-founder of K•A•C and Emeritus Professor at Imperial College London, emphasized that the course is open to anyone with the willingness to reduce smoking and tobacco-related harm.
Participants can complete the modular, self-guided program in two to three hours and will receive a comprehensive introduction to THR and its underlying data, along with context from well-established harm reduction practices. Assessments will involve reading modules, engaging in practical exercises, and taking quizzes. Successful participants can earn a certificate to enhance their professional portfolios.
Upon completion, individuals will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions regarding tobacco use and advocate for effective harm reduction approaches. Those interested in participating can register for the free course here. This initiative marks a significant step forward in public health strategy, aiming to lessen the burden of smoking-related diseases and improve overall health outcomes.
The Understanding Tobacco Harm Reduction course was developed in response to the urgent need for effective public health interventions to mitigate the effects of tobacco use. Building on the success of K•A•C's Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholarship Programme, which has trained over 100 advocates and researchers in 55 countries, the course is now accessible to everyone who wants to learn more about THR. With contributions from an array of public health experts—including researchers, healthcare professionals, and educators—the course offers evidence-based insights into tobacco harm reduction strategies that could save lives.
This free course is especially significant for individuals unable or unwilling to quit smoking, providing them with vital knowledge about alternative nicotine delivery systems. Professor Gerry Stimson, co-founder of K•A•C and Emeritus Professor at Imperial College London, emphasized that the course is open to anyone with the willingness to reduce smoking and tobacco-related harm.
Participants can complete the modular, self-guided program in two to three hours and will receive a comprehensive introduction to THR and its underlying data, along with context from well-established harm reduction practices. Assessments will involve reading modules, engaging in practical exercises, and taking quizzes. Successful participants can earn a certificate to enhance their professional portfolios.
Upon completion, individuals will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions regarding tobacco use and advocate for effective harm reduction approaches. Those interested in participating can register for the free course here. This initiative marks a significant step forward in public health strategy, aiming to lessen the burden of smoking-related diseases and improve overall health outcomes.
Topics Health）
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