Recent research shows that e-cigarettes are nearly three times more effective than nicotine gum or nicotine lozenges in helping low-income smokers quit.
For individuals living with limited resources, this finding is particularly significant, as they often face higher risks of smoking-related illnesses while having less access to effective quitting support.

The Challenges of Quitting Smoking in Low-Income Populations

Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. Tobacco use is generally higher among low-income populations compared to those with greater financial means, putting them at greater risk for chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

In everyday life, quitting can be especially difficult for economically disadvantaged individuals. Limited access to healthcare, high stress levels, and environments where smoking is common all contribute to higher relapse rates. This is why researchers have explored whether e-cigarettes and other vaporized nicotine products (VNPs) can bridge the gap left by traditional nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs).

E-Cigarettes vs. Traditional Nicotine Replacement Therapy

The study, led by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales in Australia, involved 1,045 adults from New South Wales. All participants were daily smokers receiving government pensions or public assistance and intended to attempt quitting within two weeks of enrollment.

Participants were randomly assigned to two groups:

• One group used nicotine gum or nicotine lozenges (traditional NRT).
• The other group used nicotine e-liquids with either pod-style or refillable devices.

The e-liquids were available in multiple flavors, including tobacco, mint, and fruit, allowing users to tailor their experience to personal preferences. All participants also received five weeks of SMS-based behavioral support during the initial quitting phase, helping them adhere to their plans and manage cravings.

Striking Results: Nearly Threefold Difference in Success Rates

After six months, the results were clear: the NRT group had a continuous quit rate of 9.6%, while the e-cigarette group achieved a success rate of 28.4%.
In other words, smokers using e-cigarettes were nearly three times more likely to quit successfully compared to those using traditional therapies.

Notably, this advantage held across different ages, genders, levels of nicotine dependence, and mental health statuses, indicating that the benefits of e-cigarettes extend broadly rather than being limited to specific subgroups.

Why E-Cigarettes Are More Effective

Researchers suggest that the advantages of e-cigarettes in quitting are mainly due to two factors:

1. Similarity to smoking behaviors: The act of inhaling and exhaling vapor closely mimics traditional smoking, providing both psychological and physiological relief.
2. Variety of flavors: Compared with the monotony of gum or lozenges, e-cigarettes offer more choice and a more enjoyable quitting experience.

According to user feedback, selecting a device that produces stable vapor and minimizes throat irritation can make quitting easier. For example, SP2S products have continually optimized vaporization technology, reducing harshness and delivering smoother flavor, which helps users stick with their quitting plan. This comfort can be a key factor in achieving lasting results.

Promoting Public Health and Health Equity

The significance of this study goes beyond demonstrating e-cigarettes’ effectiveness—it also highlights a pathway to reduce health disparities. Low-income individuals, who are most affected by tobacco-related diseases, often lack access to effective quitting tools. Introducing efficient devices like e-cigarettes into public health programs could help more people take that critical first step toward quitting.

Although regulatory and safety discussions around e-cigarettes continue, this trial provides robust evidence to guide inclusive and practical quitting strategies.

Quitting Should Be an Opportunity, Not a Privilege

This clinical trial reinforces that, with the right tools and support, quitting smoking is achievable. For adult smokers, a device that is comfortable to use and technically reliable can be pivotal in maintaining long-term success.

SP2S continues to invest in vaporization technology, flavor development, and product safety, helping more adults with the intention to quit smoking take meaningful steps toward a smoke-free life.