Press release notes India’s quit success rate remains below 5% among 267 million tobacco users, prompting calls for broader NRT access.
Experts at Respire‑2026 urged the Drug Technical Advisory Board to keep 2 mg and 4 mg nicotine replacement therapies available over‑the‑counter.
Global evidence shows 2 mg/4 mg NRT can boost quit rates by 50‑70% versus unassisted attempts, supporting the OTC recommendation.
The EAC‑PM report highlights tobacco’s economic burden on low‑income households, linking reduced consumption to improved welfare.