This is with reference to the report “Plan to regularise ‘heated tobacco products’ under fire” (Dec 4). As a chest physician, I strongly oppose the proposal to approve this new tobacco product in the country. Heated tobacco products (HTPs) consist of a small tobacco stick that is heated electronically rather than burned. Apart from heated tobacco, the industry has also introduced electronic cigarettes as well as smokeless tobacco products in the form of nicotine pouches. A high percentage of Pakistani youth has started using newer tobacco products without realising their associated long-term health risks.
