Experts Advise Health Professionals to Discuss E-Cigarettes as Quit-Smoking Option for Adults
A new international expert recommendation encourages healthcare professionals to engage in balanced, evidence-based discussions with adult smokers about using nicotine-containing e-cigarettes as an alternative cessation method when conventional approaches fail. Published in the medical journal JAMA by researchers from the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco Treatment Network, the guidance emphasizes that the goal is not to promote e-cigarette use but to offer an additional option for adults who have been unsuccessful or unwilling to quit smoking through standard therapies such as medications, nicotine replacement, and counseling.
The recommendations specifically target adult cigarette smokers and exclude youth, non-smokers, and non-nicotine users. The experts reaffirm that complete cessation of combustible cigarettes remains the most effective way to reduce smoking-related health risks. However, for those unable or unwilling to quit, a shared decision-making process between clinician and patient should explore all available options, tailoring the approach to individual preferences and circumstances. If switching to e-cigarettes is considered, the objective should be full replacement of traditional cigarettes rather than prolonged dual use.
Professor Patricia Cio, a nursing professor and deputy dean for research at the University of Rhode Island and the sole nurse on the author team, highlighted how qualitative research with daily smokers reshaped her perspective. Many participants reported numerous failed quit attempts and reluctance to stop despite awareness of health risks. She stressed the importance of meeting patients where they are and discussing all evidence-based harm reduction strategies.
The authors clarify that the recommendations do not encourage e-cigarette use among the general public, especially youth or non-smokers, but focus on a defined group of adult smokers struggling to quit. The medical dialogue should remain patient-centered, transparent, and grounded in current scientific evidence, aiming to minimize harm from continued smoking. The central message remains that complete smoking cessation is the preferred health outcome, but professionals should not avoid discussing alternative options when cessation is not achieved.
