The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched the Practical Guideline for Management of Tobacco Dependence, in collaboration with Emirates Health Services (EHS), the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and Dubai Health.
The guideline aims to equip health professionals with skills necessary to curb tobacco consumption, protect the community from the harmful effects of smoking and provide support to individuals seeking to quit. This initiative is set to support MoHAP's ongoing efforts to improve the national tobacco consumption index and enhance public health and quality of life for UAE residents.
Held in Dubai, the launch event was attended by H.E. Dr. Hussain Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary of Public Health Sector, Ministry of Health and Prevention, and Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department at the Ministry, as well as officials from various departments within the Ministry, along with representatives from health authorities across the UAE.
Updated Framework and Reference
The Practical Guideline for Management of Tobacco Dependence provides a comprehensive, multi-level framework and an updated reference for health professionals. It is set to foster a culture of tobacco prevention through awareness, effective counseling, and psychological support for individuals seeking to quit all types and derivatives of tobacco.
The guideline also prioritizes follow-up care to prevent relapse, leveraging the collective efforts of healthcare staff and specialists to manage preventive health programs, address health challenges associated with tobacco consumption, and promote a healthier lifestyle.
The guideline was developed based on a comprehensive scientific methodology that blends international best practices with local expertise, prioritising sustainable outcomes and societal impact.
It is structured around key strategic pillars, including an integrated legislative and policy system that prioritises updating legislation to align with the latest global standards, establishing robust monitoring and compliance mechanisms, and enhancing integration with national health policies. Furthermore, the guideline is set to strengthen community empowerment and promote health awareness through innovative and impactful campaigns.
Integrated Strategies for Smoking Cessation
Aligned with national health indicators and the World Health Organisation’s targets for reducing non-communicable diseases, the guide offers comprehensive strategies and detailed steps for managing each phase of tobacco addiction.
These interventions include behavioural therapies and medications approved by health authorities, tailored to address three primary groups: individuals seeking to quit, those unwilling to stop, and former smokers at risk of relapse.
To ensure precision and efficacy, the guideline incorporates advanced international tests for measuring nicotine dependency and leverages emerging technologies to evaluate a patient’s readiness to quit smoking, as well as their risk of resuming tobacco use.
Keeping up with scientific developments
Dr. Al Rand stressed that the guide would contribute significantly to the ministry's ongoing efforts to reduce tobacco use and protect the health of everyone in the community. “We are committed to keeping pace with the latest scientific evidence, ensuring that health professionals have access to reliable and practical resources. By aligning with international standards, we seek to support public health efforts and help everyone enjoy a better quality of life," he said.
His Excellency also pointed out that the UAE has long been a leader in this area, having passed the Federal Law No. (15) of 2009 on Combating Tobacco. The country also ratified the World Health Organisation's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005, which commits the nation to effective measures that protect people from tobacco smoke in workplaces, public transportation, and public spaces.
He added that the Ministry is collaborating closely with both local and international health authorities to improve the national tobacco consumption index. By doing so, we look forward to raising awareness and developing policies and legislation that help create a healthier, more health-conscious society in line with the government commitment to building a robust, preventative health system.”
Positive results
For her part, Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila said that the launch of the Practical Guideline for Management of Tobacco Dependence is part of the ministry's efforts to support and empower healthcare professionals.
Bin Belaila explained that the guideline is specifically designed to improve the services provided at smoking cessation clinics. Created in collaboration with the National Tobacco Control Programme, health authorities, and a team of experts, it follows the latest international standards to offer the most effective help for those wanting to quit smoking.
She added: “Tobacco control is one of the ministry’s top priorities. Therefore, we have developed a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing all forms of tobacco use, including e-cigarettes, while making tobacco reduction a key national health indicator. The serious health risks of smoking, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and psychological disorders, along with its broader health and societal impacts, demand urgent attention."