The Caribbean has become a focal point for lobbying efforts by groups such as the World Vapers’ Alliance, Smoke Free Sweden, and We Are Innovation. These organizations are pushing narratives aimed at weakening robust tobacco control measures in the region, particularly ahead of the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Recent articles and social media campaigns targeting Barbados and Trinidad have promoted the tobacco industry’s agenda, falsely portraying electronic cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products as harm reduction tools. However, these claims are not supported by independent public health research. Instead, these products are aggressively marketed to youth, are highly addictive, and pose significant long-term health risks. Nicotine, a key component of these products, is linked to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and impaired brain development in adolescents. The World Health Organization has warned that the tobacco industry is using these newer products to undermine public health policies while continuing to profit from traditional cigarettes. Dr. Arthur Phillips, Deputy Chief Medical Officer in Barbados, highlighted the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to the long-term costs of nicotine addiction. The Barbados National NCD Commission has also raised concerns about the rise of vaping, emphasizing its health risks and aggressive marketing to youth. Caribbean governments, as parties to the WHO FCTC, must remain vigilant against industry interference and advocate for evidence-based tobacco control policies at COP11. Measures such as higher tobacco taxes, advertising bans, and accessible cessation services are essential to protect public health.
OP-ED: Big Tobacco Calls It Harm Reduction, Caribbean Youth Calls It Profiting From Addiction
