A new study shows that smokers who use reduced-nicotine cigarettes do not increase their smoking habits.

The study, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, concluded that participants did not change their smoking habits as a result of the lower nicotine amount. "Our study suggests that smokers are unable or unwilling to compensate when there is markedly less nicotine in the cigarette and when the experience of smoking is far less rewarding," says study co-author David Hammond.

More than 70 people took part in the study. Participants had to be between the ages of 18 and 65. They also had to smoke at least five cigarettes daily and not be intending to stop smoking anytime soon.

The study suggests that because nicotine is the addictive part of cigarettes, it makes it difficult for smokers to quit.