EHS Strengthens Anti-Smoking Awareness And Prevention Programmes Across The UAE

Emirates Health Services (EHS) is intensifying its efforts to reduce smoking through comprehensive awareness campaigns, cessation support, and promoting healthy practices. These initiatives aim to prevent diseases linked to both traditional and modern tobacco products. EHS operates 17 smoking cessation clinics across the UAE, with a notable 53% increase in beneficiaries this year compared to last year.

The rise in beneficiaries is due to EHS's holistic treatment and awareness programmes that combine medical assistance with behavioural counselling. Advanced therapeutic technologies, such as biometric monitoring of carbon monoxide levels, are used alongside expanded virtual consultations via a smart application. This approach has led to a 52.6% success rate in helping individuals quit smoking.

Dr. Kareema Alraesi, Director of the Primary Health Care Department at EHS, emphasised the integrated strategy for combating smoking and raising awareness about its dangers. She stated that early intervention and empowering healthcare providers are crucial components of their approach. "Tobacco control is a cornerstone of preventing non-communicable diseases," she noted.

EHS plans to launch several initiatives as part of its 2025–2026 agenda. These include developing a smart application offering daily treatment plans and reminders for smokers, establishing a mental health hotline, organising group therapy sessions, expanding support groups, enhancing training for healthcare professionals, and recognising successful quitters.

Dr. Sojoud Alsheraifi, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Project at EHS, highlighted the need for innovative responses to modern tobacco challenges. She stated that reducing tobacco-related burdens requires active partnerships between healthcare providers, legislative bodies, educational institutions, and the public.

Community Awareness Initiatives

EHS prioritises community-wide awareness initiatives targeting youth to educate them on smoking's health risks and prevention methods. Specialised campaigns will focus on the health, social, and economic impacts of smoking while engaging influencers and introducing anti-smoking educational modules in school curricula for students aged 15 and above.

The number of clinics will also be increased as part of these efforts. Through these comprehensive strategies, EHS aims to foster community participation in changing harmful behaviours related to tobacco use.

With inputs from WAM