Pipe Filters and Health Risks

Do pipe filters and similar devices reduce health risks and make smoking safer?

First, let me be clear that I am not an expert on smoking related diseases or cancer prevention. As to what constitutes "high" risk versus "low" risk, I am simply not qualified to say. If you have particular health concerns about smoking, I recommend speaking to your doctor.

It's important to acknowledge that all forms of smoking and tobacco use involve certain risks and health hazards. However, even if all the risk cannot be eliminated, there are several things that smokers can do to reduce dangers. Reducing the frequency and duration of smoking, smoking milder tobaccos, and using filters can help. But just reducing risks doesn't mean pipe smoking is "healthy" or "good for you." (Ironically, the 1964 Surgeon General's report indicated that pipe smokers who did not inhale actually lived longer than non-smokers and those who did inhale lived about as long as non-smokers! Some speculate this is because pipe smoking helps relieve stress, which is an aid to overall health.)

Now on to the question about pipe filters and reducing health risks.

On the one hand, we could note that filters have done nothing to make cigarette smoking healthier. In fact, some evidence indicates that filters have caused more harm for cigarette smokers. This is because filters impede access to tar and nicotine, which will cause a habitual smoker to unconsciously draw more deeply in order to obtain what his body craves. Also, the filters can cause a false sense of safety, which makes people feel free to smoke more frequently. These things combine to actually produce greater health risks.

On the other hand, testing and practical experience do seem to indicate that certain risks associated with smoking can be reduced by using filters and other similar devices.

For example, the patented Savinelli balsa filtering system has been tested both by the EURATOM Research Center of Ispra (Italy) and by the CHEMICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY Inc. Research Center (USA) with very positive results: "..the filter has the ability to absorb 77% of the nicotine and 91% of the tar contained in tobacco without altering the flavour of same." Another great features of the Savinelli pipes with the filters system, is that the pipe can be smoked with or without the filter by using a simple converter or adapter tube that comes with each pipe.

As for the paper filters by companies such as Medico or Dr. Grabow, I have not seen any documentation or read any studies that present actual statistics or data. However, I can tell you that the paper filters work on the simple principle of breaking up the smoke as it passes through the filter. Nicotine, tar, and other irritants are trapped in the cellphane covered, absorbent paper (similar to the balsa wood in the Savinelli system. The fact that the filters turn brown (or darker) when used indicates that they are doing something. This is also true of the Denicool Pipe Crystals, which turn black during smoking demonstrating that they are absorbing some of the tar, nicotine, and juices produced during combustion of tobacco.

While smoking in any form is not healthy, it is fair to point out there are many things in life that are not good for us, but we still do them because we enjoy them. That's not a reason or excuse, of course, but simply an acknowledgement that all people take calculated risks throughout their lives. For example, eating at McDonald's can contribute to high cholesterol, obesity, and other serious health problems. Millions are addicted to coffee and drink it daily, even though the effects of caffeine (a stimulant) has adverse impact on health. Tens of thousands suffer from high blood pressure, but they still eat salt in high quantities, which dramatically increases various risks for cardio and vascular problems.

Having said all that, let me say again that I am no expert on these health issues. I try to stay informed so I can make reasonable decisions about my own practices. Where there are risks, I do whatever I can to minimize those risks, including using filters on many of my pipes. For those who find their consciences plagued about health concerns, I would suggest not smoking at all. Smoking is a pleasure to be savored, not something to force upon yourself if you have legitimate concerns. The bottom line is that we must take responsibility for our own lives and the choices we make.