Picture :Credit: WHO / Conor Ashleigh
Copyright: ©️ WHO / Conor Ashleigh
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched its first comprehensive guideline on tobacco cessation, offering a lifeline to over 750 million tobacco users worldwide who want to kick the habit. The guideline provides a robust set of interventions, including behavioral support, digital interventions, and pharmacological treatments, to help individuals quit all forms of tobacco.
According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, “This guideline marks a crucial milestone in our global battle against tobacco products.” The recommendations cater to all adults seeking to quit various tobacco products, including cigarettes, waterpipes, and heated tobacco products.
The guideline emphasizes combining pharmacotherapy with behavioral interventions, which significantly increases quitting success rates. WHO recommends effective treatments like varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and cytisine, and encourages countries to provide these treatments at no or reduced cost.
Behavioral interventions, such as brief health worker counseling and intensive individual or group counseling, are also recommended. Digital interventions like text messaging, smartphone apps, and internet programs can be used as adjuncts or self-management tools.
WHO’s move aims to bridge the gap in access to effective cessation services, which currently leaves over 70% of tobacco users without support. By adopting and implementing this guideline, health-care providers, policy-makers, and stakeholders can promote tobacco cessation and improve the health of millions worldwide.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
