Kuwait's Smoking Cessation Rates Rise to 9% Over Two Years

Abdulkarim Al-Abdullah: Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, President of the Kuwait Association for Combating Smoking and Cancer, emphasized the importance of continuing national efforts to raise awareness about the harms of smoking and nicotine products. He noted that the smoking cessation rate in Kuwait has risen from 7% in 2024 to 9% currently, underscoring the need to provide specialized and continuous support for those seeking to quit smoking.

Speaking to KUNA, Dr. Al-Saleh said that in light of the World Health Organization’s recent warnings about the rapid spread of nicotine pouches, particularly among young people and adolescents, it is crucial to be wary of marketing strategies that rely on appealing flavors, attractive packaging, social media, influencers, and sponsorship of sports and music events.

He highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the risks of nicotine products, especially among youth and adolescents, and called on all smokers wishing to quit to take advantage of the smoking cessation clinic’s services and receive specialized support and guidance.

He pointed out that quitting smoking is an important step toward protecting health and reducing the risks of tobacco-related diseases, and urged those interested in registering or inquiring about the smoking cessation clinic to contact the hotline at 94704366.

The World Health Organization recently warned about the rapid spread of nicotine pouches among young people and adolescents, noting that sales of these products exceeded 23 billion units in 2024, a 50% increase compared to the previous year. The global market value of these products reached approximately $7 billion in 2025.