Belgian Health Body: Filtered Cigarettes Equally Unhealthy, Call for Filter Ban

Recently, according to The Brussels Times, an analysis by the Belgian Superior Health Council revealed that filtered cigarettes are just as unhealthy as unfiltered ones. The analysis also pointed out that filters create a false sense of security and may lead to higher levels of carcinogens in cigarette smoke.

The Superior Health Council's report stated: cigarette filters actually do not reduce the harmful health effects of smoking. The council also believes that, from a public health perspective, filters offer no benefits while polluting the environment.

Banning filters could potentially reduce the appeal of smoking. It is said that filters provide a more pleasant taste, reduce sensory irritation in the respiratory tract, and prevent tobacco from entering the mouth. 

The Superior Health Council concluded: Over the years, filters have not prevented lung cancer but have primarily contributed to a shift in lung cancer types. Therefore, filters represent a misguided harm reduction strategy.

The Superior Health Council called for filters to be considered as non-degradable single-use plastic products, like disposable plastic bags.

The council also recommended implementing a filter ban throughout the European Union.

Reference:

https://www.brusselstimes.com/476676/cigarette-filters-do-more-harm-than-good-experts-call-for-eu-wide-ban

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