A new study on the effects of snus on smoking habits and mortality reveals that snus helps save thousands of lives in Sweden each year. The use of snus has not only reduced the number of people who start smoking, but more importantly, helped many quit smoking altogether. 

The percentage of smokers in Sweden is significantly lower than in other EU countries. A comprehensive study conducted by the Swedish Institute for Tobacco Studies now shows that this is largely thanks to the use of snus. 

Snus as a life-saver  

By comparing mortality data from Sweden with similar data from other European countries where snus is not available, researchers have demonstrated snus’s direct impact on public health. 

“In a hypothetical scenario where snus does not exist in Sweden, smoking-related deaths would be significantly higher,” writes Lars Ramström, lead researcher at the Swedish Institute for Tobacco Studies. 

The study shows that mortality among Swedish men would be 1.6 times higher if snus were not available as an alternative to smoking. Thanks to snus, smoking-related deaths were reduced by 4,000 lives per year during the 2010s. 

A major health impact for women  

Swedish men began switching from cigarettes to snus as early as the 1980s. Now, trends suggest that women are also starting to recognize the benefits of snus, an important development with major health advantages for women. 

While traditional tobacco snus has historically been more popular among men, women are increasingly opting for tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Since the launch of nicotine pouches in 2016, their popularity has grown equally among both men and women.  

According to the latest report on self-reported smoking and snus habits, conducted by The Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs (CAN), eleven percent of men and ten percent of women use nicotine pouches. Nicotine pouches could therefore be the solution to reducing smoking-related mortality among women as well. 

Sweden continues to lead the way  

The Swedish study highlights that the use of snus can have significant benefits for public health and reduce smoking-related deaths. 

“It’s time we review and adjust our tobacco policies to reflect the latest research on snus and its ability to reduce smoking rates,” writes Ramström. 

Evidence-based tobacco policies have long been advocated by the Secretary General of the Swedish Snus Manufacturers Association, Patrik Strömer. This study reinforces that important message. 

“That’s why it’s essential to continue educating the public and policymakers about the scientific foundation for snus as a harm reduction alternative to cigarettes,” says Strömer.  

“Authorities have a great responsibility to highlight these benefits, and this will enable Sweden to continue leading the way in reducing smoking-related mortality and saving even more lives.”