ALA supports USPSTF recommendation on use of traditional cessation methods

CHICAGO  — The American Lung Association on Monday welcomed the updated draft recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on tobacco cessation interventions in adults. 

 

For the first time, the USPSTF reviewed the scientific evidence around electronic nicotine delivery systems, commonly known as e-cigarettes, and determined that there is insufficient information on whether ENDS are “more helpful or harmful” for helping smokers quit. Instead, USPSTF urged clinicians to direct their patients who smoke to cessation interventions that have been proven to be safe and effective.

 

“The American Lung Association agrees with the Task Force’s recommendations that clinicians should only be recommending proven smoking cessation interventions to their patients,” said Harold Wimmer, national president and CEO of the American Lung Association. “E-cigarettes are an unregulated tobacco product and no e-cigarette has been found by FDA to be safe and effective in helping smokers quit.”

 

“Quitting smoking is one of the single most effective things someone can do to improve their health,” said Wimmer. “Heath care providers play a key role in supporting and assisting their patients so they can quit for good.”