Code of Conduct for Dealing with the Tobacco and Nicotine Industry – Impulse for Action for Scientific Societies

The German Center for Lung Research (DZL) and 14 other medical societies, under the initiative of the German Respiratory Society (DGP), have reached a consensus on a unified stance towards the tobacco industry. In a newly published position paper, these organizations have laid out clear recommendations for dealing with the tobacco and nicotine industries. The societies firmly reject financial and material support from the tobacco industry and manufacturers or distributors of new nicotine products such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches. Furthermore, collaboration with individuals or organizations that receive funding from or promote the interests of the tobacco industry is prohibited. The societies also call for the disclosure of all current or past affiliations with tobacco companies to ensure transparency and uphold the independence of scientific work.

Background: Protecting Science from External Influence

For decades, the tobacco industry has sought to expand its influence on science, aiming to shape public understanding of health risks. A prominent example of this strategy is the concept of “pharmaceuticalization,” whereby tobacco companies like Philip Morris acquire pharmaceutical companies, such as Vectura, to blur the lines between tobacco and nicotine products and medical nicotine replacement therapies. These tactics are designed to mislead regulatory bodies, divide the scientific community, and increase public acceptance of new nicotine products, thereby undermining trust in health-promoting measures.

In addition to rejecting any collaboration, the position paper calls on the scientific community to approach the tobacco industry’s influence on research outcomes with caution. Studies show that financial ties to the tobacco industry often lead to downplaying the risks associated with e-cigarettes and other nicotine products. Transparent disclosure of conflicts of interest is essential to ensure that scientific findings remain unbiased and credible.

Together for Transparency and Independence

With this code, the DZL and the endorsing medical societies are setting a strong example for independent, evidence-based research and encourage other scientific organizations to adhere to these guidelines. The code underscores the responsibility of the medical community in safeguarding public health and supports the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which prohibits partnerships with the tobacco industry. The position paper is now available online.

To the position paper (German language)