Blog

Hamoud J, et al. A Systematic Review Investigating the Impact of Dual Use (DU) of E-Cigarettes and Conventional Cigarettes on Smoking Cessation. ERJ Open Research 2024 00902-2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1183/23120541.00902-2024

A systematic search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, and all longitudinal studies reporting transitions between DU, exclusive e-cigarette use, and exclusive conventional cigarette use were included. Forty-six records (sixteen original studies) were identified. Of sixteen included studies, eight could be pooled for meta-analysis. The studies showed great heterogeneity, and many presented moderate to high risks of bias. Most dual users who changed state transitioned to cigarette smoking. Baseline dual users were less likely to report a transition into complete abstinence compared to exclusive CC smokers and exclusive EC users. About one-fifth of dual users remained in the same use status after >16–24 months, exposing them to DU for a prolonged time. After >24–48 months, 8% of DU maintained DU. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that DU is not a first step toward smoking cessation.

Note: “Dual use is not an intermediate condition on the way from cigarettes to “switching completely” or quitting” Stanton Glantz Blog, Dec 30, 2024

TRC Research Commentary

Jackler RK and Ling PM. The Tobacco Industry Has No Business Funding Continuing Medical Education
JAMA. 8 Jul 2024;332(24):2059-2060. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.9241

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2820846

“Medscape is a leading US for-profit medical education company that offers free online CME supported by corporate funding.” It initially accepted a CME program from Philip Morris International (PMI), but after complaints withdrew this material stating, “Medscape Education will no longer accept funds from or work with the tobacco industry or its affiliates.”

Authors of this paper review the content of the material that was posted before its withdrawal. The assertions made in the material were sometimes false or incomplete, quoting ‘harm reduction’ statements from tobacco industry misinformation. Importantly, authors note that “PMI’s engagement of Medscape was not an isolated occurrence, but appears to be a global campaign. Similar PMI-funded CME courses have appeared in the Middle East and Africa.”

Comment: Philip Morris International and other tobacco companies continually make false medical representations about tobacco issues and present biased medical findings and practice principles, even in medical education and continuing medical education. Responsible curriculum review and elimination of tobacco interests from providing education materials should be strictly followed to avoid these conflicts of interest.

Stephen Hamann