Clinical study shows favorable differences in biomarkers of potential harm in adult smokers who switched from cigarette smoking to tobacco heating system use for at least 2 years
Dubai, UAE, October 30, 2024: Philip Morris International (PMI) has released promising results from a recent cross-sectional clinical study[1] 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.
- Nicotine Exposure: Despite the favourable differences in BoPH, exposure to nicotine, measured as part of the additional objectives, was comparable between THS users and 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[2] 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 use1.
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[3] 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.
Philip Morris International: Delivering a Smoke-Free Future
Philip Morris International (PMI) is a leading international tobacco company, actively delivering a smoke-free future and evolving its portfolio for the long term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company’s current product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products. Since 2008, PMI has invested over $12.5 billion to develop, scientifically substantiate and commercialize innovative smoke- free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke, with the goal of completely ending the sale of cigarettes. This includes the building of world-class scientific assessment capabilities, notably in the areas of pre-clinical systems toxicology, clinical and behavioral research, as well as post-market studies. In 2022, PMI acquired Swedish Match – a leader in oral nicotine delivery – creating a global smoke-free champion led by the companies’ IQOS and ZYN brands. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized versions of PMI’s IQOS devices and consumables and Swedish Match’s General snus as Modified Risk Tobacco Products and renewal applications for these products are presently pending before the FDA. As of June 30, 2024, PMI’s smoke-free products were available for sale in 90 markets, and PMI estimates that 36.5 million adults around the world use PMI’s smoke-free products. The smoke-free business accounted for approximately 38% of PMI’s total first nine months 2024 revenues. With a strong foundation and significant expertise in life sciences, PMI announced in February 2021 its ambition to expand into wellness and healthcare areas and aims to enhance life through the delivery of seamless health experiences.
[1] Positive results from PMI’s cross-sectional risk marker study on IQOS users versus smokers (pmiscience.com)
[2] Effects of switching to a heat-not-burn tobacco product on biologically-relevant biomarkers to assess a candidate Modified Risk Tobacco Product: A randomized trial (pmiscience.com)
[3] Reduced HPHC Exposure After Switching to THS | PMI Science
