Virtual Reality in Tobacco Cessation: A Strategic Battle against Tobacco Use through Cutting-edge Technology

Abstract Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality worldwide, with India facing a particularly high burden. Traditional tobacco cessation methods often encounter limitations, such as high relapse rates and a lack of user engagement. Virtual reality (VR) emerges as a novel, immersive tool that addresses these challenges by simulating real-world smoking scenarios, enabling users to build coping mechanisms, manage cravings, and experience the physiological impact of tobacco. VR enhances behavioural therapies, such as the 5A’s and 5R’s, through interactive exposure, education, and real-time feedback. It is especially effective for adolescents and tech-savvy users, offering personalised, scalable, and engaging interventions. By visualising the consequences of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting, VR motivates sustained behavioural change. As digital health becomes more integrated into public wellness programs, VR has the potential to revolutionise tobacco cessation strategies, making them more impactful and widely accessible.