R Street Institute’s Jeffrey Smith Says Tobacco Harm Reduction Policy Should Focus on Science, Not Perception

WASHINGTON — July 23, 2026 — Jeffrey Smith, Senior Fellow at the R Street Institute, discusses the importance of focusing tobacco harm reduction policy on scientific evidence rather than public perception in a recent episode of the Health Policy Podcast. Smith emphasizes the need for clear communication about the risks associated with nicotine products and the potential benefits of reduced-risk alternatives.

In the episode, Smith outlines his background in neuroscience and tobacco policy, detailing how his academic career led him to explore the complexities of nicotine use and harm reduction. He argues that a science-based approach is crucial for informing policymakers and the public about the relative risks of combustible tobacco versus reduced-risk products.

This discussion matters because misconceptions about nicotine and vaping can hinder effective public health strategies. By prioritizing scientific evidence, stakeholders can better address the smoking epidemic and reduce the number of smoking-related deaths, which currently stands at approximately 500,000 annually in the United States.

"From the scientific perspective, when we compare the toxicological risk of a cigarette to the toxicological risk of an ENDS product, they are just two very different products," Smith said. He added, "If the CDC or the FDA says they're just as bad, why change?"

Smith's insights highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of tobacco harm reduction. As the conversation around nicotine products evolves, it is essential for policymakers to consider scientific data to effectively reduce smoking rates and improve public health outcomes.