The Case of Flavours in Tobacco Harm Reduction
Speaker: Konstantinos Farsalinos
Chair: Anastasia Barbouni
Dr. Konstantinos Farsalinos is a prominent advocate for flavours in Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR), particularly in vaping products. His research emphasizes the critical role that flavoured e-liquids play in helping smokers switch from traditional cigarettes to safer alternatives. His findings advocate for well-regulated access to flavoured vaping products as an essential component of public health strategies to reduce smoking-related harm. He views the inclusion of flavours as a pragmatic solution that aligns with the goals of harm reduction, particularly for smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit through other methods. At the same time, he expresses his concern that any attempts to ban flavors will result in the development of an uncontrolled market that will put both adults and youth at risk. He sees flavours as a key element in the success of THR, helping smokers move away from combustible cigarettes and lowering the overall public health burden of smoking.