The World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched its first-ever guideline on tobacco cessation, aimed at assisting over 750 million tobacco users worldwide who wish to quit.
The comprehensive guideline recommends a combination of behavioural support, digital interventions, and pharmacological treatments to help individuals overcome tobacco addiction.
According to WHO, over 60% of the world’s 1.25 billion tobacco users desire to quit, but 70% lack access to effective cessation services due to resource limitations and health system challenges. The guideline seeks to bridge this gap by empowering countries to provide essential tools and support for individuals seeking to quit tobacco.
WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, described the guideline as a “crucial milestone” in the global fight against tobacco, enabling countries to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviating the burden of tobacco-related diseases.
The guideline recommends varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy, bup
