The results showed that the levels for the biomarkers of exposure, based on priority toxicants as defined by the WHO [ii], were substantially lower in Velo consumers compared with smokers. The data also showed favourable differences between the Velo consumers and smokers in the majority of the biomarkers of potential harm, with four achieving statistical significance, and the others having similar levels across the Velo consumers, former and never smoker groups.

The study provides important new data and insights into the real-world health impact in Velo consumers compared to smokers, former smokers and never smokers. A single set of samples of blood, urine and other clinical measurements was tested for certain toxicants and a range of biomarkers thought to be linked to the development of diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Dr David O’Reilly, Director, Scientific Research at BAT, said: “These results are very important for Velo and the modern oral nicotine product category. They build on the extensive scientific evidence, including epidemiological data, that already exists for oral tobacco and add to the weight of evidence that supports our belief that Velo is a reduced-risk[*†] product for smokers who completely switch from cigarettes as compared to continued smoking. We have already generated data that shows Velo has a toxicant profile better than snus and comparable to Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)[iii]. These results add further evidence that supports the important contribution Velo can make to Tobacco Harm Reduction.

“I’d like to thank everyone who participated and helped deliver this study. It is another important step forward in our journey to building A Better Tomorrow.”

Based on the biomarkers measured, compared to smokers, Velo consumers who had been using the product exclusively showed:

· Significantly lower levels in biomarkers of exposure to priority tobacco toxicants
· Significant favourable differences in a biomarker of potential harm relevant to lung cancer risk
· Significant favourable differences in a number of biomarkers of potential harm relevant to cardiovascular disease
· Significant favourable differences in a biomarker of potential harm relevant to general inflammation

For the biomarkers that showed no significant difference between the Velo consumers and smokers, similar levels were observed between the Velo and former and never smoker groups.