The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: 1. The objective of this symposium is to explain why and how the case was made for NRT to be made more accessible in the UK. As a result, NRT is now indicated for use by pregnant smokers, patients with CVD, adolescent smokers, to assist with reduction in smoking as a step towards quitting and in combinations. 2. This is important as even in the UK where smokers have access to specialist service support and NRT is available on prescription, OTC and in some cases on general sale, health professionals were reluctant to recommend NRT to certain groups of smokers as a result of contraindications and cautions.

Methods: This session will feature presentations from a range of individuals who will speak about the medical evidence, health professional, policy and advocacy perspectives. The presentations will also highlight “lessons learned” that may be transferable to other countries.

Results: The presentations will: • Outline the evidence base and public health considerations supporting the changes • Discuss the strategy undertaken by experts, health professionals and advocates to secure the changes • Discuss the implementation of the changes and any evidence of early impact • Discuss the lessons learned and critical success factors that could be relevant to scientists and advocates in other countries