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Philip Morris' new scientific initiative: an analysis
N Hirschhorn1, S A Bialous, S Shatenstein
1bertzpoet@yahoo.com
Tobacco Control
|September 7, 2001
Summary
Philip Morris launched a new research program (PMERP) in 2000 to develop safer cigarettes and improve scientific credibility. However, the program
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Tobacco Industry Research
- Scientific Integrity
Background:
- Philip Morris re-established its external research grants program (PMERP) in 2000.
- This program followed the dissolution of the Council for Tobacco Research (CTR) and the Center for Indoor Air Research (CIAR).
- Internal documents reveal a company goal to restore scientific credibility through "new openness".
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the stated purpose of the PMERP: developing cigarette designs to reduce smoking health risks.
- To analyze the underlying motives of the PMERP, including restoring scientific credibility.
- To assess the potential for the program to solicit evidence that could excuse smoking-related harms.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the PMERP's structure, including its review panel composition.
- Examination of reviewer affiliations and their research backgrounds.
- Interpretation of the program's substantive focus in relation to tobacco industry interests.
Main Results:
- The PMERP's review panel structure closely mirrors that of the former Center for Indoor Air Research (CIAR).
- A majority of named reviewers have prior tobacco industry affiliations.
- A minority of reviewers have direct research experience in tobacco or smoking.
Conclusions:
- The PMERP's structure and reviewer affiliations raise concerns about potential bias.
- The program's focus may be geared towards generating evidence that mitigates liability for smoking.
- Skepticism regarding the scientific integrity of the PMERP is warranted.
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