The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has introduced the Practical Guideline for the Management of Tobacco Dependence, developed in collaboration with Emirates Health Services (EHS), the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and Dubai Health. This new guideline is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the necessary tools to combat tobacco consumption and support individuals looking to quit smoking.
The guideline was launched at an event in Dubai, attended by key figures such as Dr. Hussain Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary of Public Health at MoHAP, and Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department. Representatives from various health authorities across the UAE were also present.
The updated framework aims to empower health professionals to create a culture of tobacco prevention through effective awareness, counseling, and psychological support for individuals trying to quit all forms of tobacco. The guideline also emphasizes the importance of follow-up care to reduce the risk of relapse.
More so, it offers a structured approach to managing tobacco addiction, with stage-wise interventions that include behavioral therapies and medications. These are tailored to three key groups: those who want to quit, those who are resistant to quitting, and former smokers at risk of returning to tobacco use.
To ensure the guideline’s effectiveness, it incorporates international tests for measuring nicotine dependency and utilizes emerging technologies to assess a patient’s readiness to quit and the likelihood of relapse.
Dr. Al Rand noted that the Ministry is committed to staying updated with the latest scientific evidence, ensuring healthcare professionals have access to practical, reliable resources. The goal is to align with international standards and support public health efforts to improve quality of life.
Dr. Buthaina emphasized that the guideline was specifically developed to enhance the services provided by smoking cessation clinics. She added that tobacco control remains a top priority for the Ministry, with a comprehensive strategy in place to reduce all forms of tobacco use, including e-cigarettes. Given the serious health risks associated with smoking, such as heart disease, cancer, and mental health issues, she stressed the urgent need for action, reports the Gulf News.
