New research in Europe shows that politicians’ knowledge of e-cigarettes and other new tobacco products has a significant impact on their perceptions of safety and risk.
A survey of members of the European Parliament (MEPs) found that those who knew about new tobacco products were more likely than those who did not to think they were at lower risk than smoking.
The survey was conducted by ecigintelligence and tobaccointelligence, independent data providers in the industry
▪ Most members of the European Parliament know nothing about new nicotine products.
▪ The perception of risk seems to have something to do with understanding the product. Members who know about the product are more likely to think that the risk of the product is lower than that of smoking; those who don’t are more likely to think that these products are as harmful as or more harmful than smoking.
▪ Most members of the European Parliament believe that new nicotine products may help existing smokers quit smoking.
▪ Major members of the European Parliament think e-cigarettes are safer than smoking, but one in five think some new nicotine products may be as dangerous as smoking.
The survey was conducted anonymously on the Internet, and all data are confidential except for comprehensive analysis. It was sent to all members of the European Parliament (from all Member States and political parties) and received responses from more than 30 members, representing nearly 5% of the members of the European Parliament.
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