#United States #Washington, D.C. #Public Health #Philip Morris #smoke-free

Philip Morris International's Urgent Call for Action in Washington

In a significant address this week in Washington, D.C., Philip Morris International's U.S. segment (PMI U.S.) highlighted a pressing message: the transition from combustible cigarettes is hindered not by a lack of scientific knowledge but by a critical absence of urgency. This statement followed the company's recent global summit on science and innovation, known as Technovation, where key stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and public health advocates, gathered to discuss the ongoing challenges posed by smoking and the pressing need for research-backed solutions.

Recent research commissioned by PMI U.S. revealed a troubling trend – 73% of American smokers mistakenly believe that all tobacco and nicotine products pose identical risks. This misconception is detrimental; it discourages smokers from exploring FDA-approved smoke-free alternatives. While a majority of the population desires more significant efforts to reduce harm associated with smoking, progress appears stalled, suggesting a credibility crisis in public discourse regarding smoking and harm reduction. This crisis, PMI U.S. argues, is costing lives.

The urgency of the situation was echoed by members of the Congressional Tobacco Harm Reduction Caucus during the Technovation summit. They emphasized the importance of aligning public health regulations with contemporary scientific understanding. “We owe it to the American people to achieve better health outcomes,” one member stated, emphasizing the need for policies that reflect the latest evidence rather than outdated assumptions.

Stacey Kennedy, CEO of PMI U.S., remarked, “The data is unequivocal. When smokers are unaware of better alternatives, they are more likely to continue their harmful habits. Science-based smoke-free options represent a superior choice for those who would otherwise continue using combustible cigarettes. Public health policy must promote informed choices and facilitate responsible progress.”

During the event, PMI U.S. also outlined several fundamental positions:

1. Science-Based Alternatives: Smoke-free alternatives should be recognized as better choices for adults who are otherwise likely to continue smoking.
2. FDA Application Backlog: Despite progress in the market, there remains a significant backlog of smoke-free product applications at the FDA. Smokers deserve access to science-based smoke-free options awaiting review.
3. Addressing Misbeliefs: The public's and medical community's misunderstanding of nicotine and the impact of combustion on smoking-related diseases hampers progress. A comprehensive understanding of tobacco harm reduction is long overdue.
4. Regulatory Communication: To accelerate progress, the FDA must better inform medical professionals about the science behind the risk profiles of smoke-free products, enabling adults who smoke to make informed choices.
5. Collaboration Is Key: An effective transition away from cigarettes requires collaboration among government, public health experts, scientists, and industry stakeholders while ensuring protections for youth and supporting informed adult choices.

These themes are elaborated on in PMI U.S.'s white paper titled “Forgotten Smoker,” which addresses the 25-30 million adult Americans who remain smokers and underscores the necessity of better access to affordable, smoke-free alternatives and accurate information regarding risk continuums.

Videos from Technovation can be accessed at PMI Technovation 2026 Press Kit.

PMI U.S. is committed to enhancing America’s future by promoting a smoke-free environment. The company is dedicated to providing better options for the 25-30 million legal-age smokers and marketing these alternatives responsibly. With over 3,000 employees and manufacturing facilities in various states, PMI U.S. plays a vital role in the country's economy and public health goals. For further information, please visit PMI U.S..