Tobacco Bill: Dhlomo calls for harm reduction approach
Sibongiseni Dhlomo advocates for a harm reduction approach in South Africa's upcoming tobacco legislation.Summary
Sibongiseni Dhlomo, former chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Health, is advocating for a harm reduction approach regarding the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill. He argues that the government should support individuals in switching to less harmful nicotine alternatives rather than simply advising against all risky behavior, drawing parallels to HIV and substance abuse prevention strategies.
During a gathering in Johannesburg, Dhlomo emphasized that public consultations and scientific evidence have shaped the legislative direction, highlighting the need to distinguish between combustible tobacco and non-combustible nicotine products. Gauteng Health MEC Faith Mazibuko supported this view, noting that harm reduction recognizes that behavioral change is often gradual and focuses on reducing preventable harm.
Other experts, including Dr. Bandile Masuku and Buhle Binta from Philip Morris International, reinforced the concept by comparing harm reduction to wearing seatbelts—reducing risk even if it doesn't eliminate it entirely. The discussion underscored the importance of using science and evidence-based interventions to help smokers transition toward healthier choices.
(Source：IOL)
