[Reduced smoking--a possible strategy for control of tobacco-associated illnesses?].

The aim of the publication is to discuss reduced smoking as a concept to control tobacco-related diseases. New scientific studies show that nicotine-replacement medications may be an untapped source in efforts to reduce smoking. This new indication for nicotine-replacement therapy was licensed for the first time in Denmark by the registration authority. Austrian data have shown that approximately 10 years after implementation, a 1% reduction in smoking could prevent 14 male cancers deaths each year. A 50% reduction could save 700 male lives. 100,000 lives (male and females) could be saved in the European Union annually by a reduction like this including other tobacco-related diseases. Even a 1% reduction would save 1,000 lives. These data are supplemented by the new hypothesis of longer induction time (of lung cancer): Even if this theory fails for the individual smoker, a remarkable gain in years of life will result for society if illness is a probability-based event. A new term of delayed and/or reduced incidence will be a result of this hypothesis. Nevertheless, primary abstinence will remain the most desirable goal in efforts to control tobacco-related diseases. However, most primary prevention campaigns failed, and it will take 30-40 years to translate primary prevention into major health benefits. Reduced smoking should be licensed as a valid method for those unwilling or unable to stop smoking.