Heated tobacco products (HTPs), also known as “heat-not-burn” products, are electronic devices designed to heat processed tobacco leaf rather than burn it. They aim to deliver nicotine and flavor by producing an inhalable aerosol from the heated tobacco. The U.S. FDA approved the IQOS system in April 2019, which includes tobacco and menthol-flavored sticks.
How Heated Tobacco Differs
Heated tobacco products operate on a principle distinct from traditional cigarettes. While cigarettes burn tobacco at approximately 1300 degrees Fahrenheit, HTPs heat tobacco to a lower temperature, around 600 degrees Fahrenheit, which prevents combustion. This “heat-not-burn” mechanism aims to release nicotine and flavors without generating smoke.
These devices typically consist of a heating element and specially designed tobacco sticks. The tobacco stick is inserted into the device, where it comes into contact with the heating element. This process generates an aerosol for the user to inhale, differing from e-cigarettes or vaping devices that heat nicotine-containing liquids instead of actual tobacco leaf.
Emissions from Heated Tobacco
Heated tobacco products release an aerosol containing nicotine and other chemicals when used. Although the heating process aims to reduce the formation of many harmful combustion products found in cigarette smoke, it does not eliminate all potentially harmful substances. The aerosol still contains various compounds, including volatile organic compounds and carbonyls.
Some studies indicate reduced levels of certain toxicants compared to traditional cigarette smoke. However, this reduction does not mean the absence of harm, as other harmful chemicals are still present, and new compounds might form during the heating process.
Documented Health Effects
Heated tobacco products can have adverse effects on health. Studies indicate impacts on the respiratory system, including lung inflammation. While long-term data is still emerging, initial research points to potential reductions in lung function over time.
HTP use also affects the cardiovascular system. These products can impact blood vessels and elevate heart rate. Continued exposure to the aerosols from heated tobacco products contributes to systemic changes, even without the combustion byproducts of traditional cigarettes.
Comparing Risks to Cigarettes
Comparing heated tobacco products to traditional cigarettes reveals important risk considerations. Some research suggests that HTPs lead to reduced exposure to certain toxicants compared to combustible cigarettes. However, this reduction does not equate to these products being harmless or risk-free.
Any tobacco product use carries inherent health risks. Heated tobacco products are not considered a safe alternative to smoking. The concept of “harm reduction” refers to potentially lowering exposure to some harmful chemicals, but it does not imply the elimination of all risks or a safe product.
Addiction and Quitting Attempts
Heated tobacco products deliver nicotine, a highly addictive chemical, making HTPs addictive similar to traditional cigarettes. Users can develop dependence on these products due to the consistent nicotine delivery.
Evidence regarding the effectiveness of HTPs as a quitting aid for traditional cigarettes is limited. These products are not scientifically proven cessation devices. In some cases, individuals may engage in dual use, continuing to smoke cigarettes while also using heated tobacco products, rather than completely quitting tobacco. The most effective and safest option for health remains the complete cessation of all tobacco and nicotine product use.