31 May 2025
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death globally, and a major health challenge in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
An estimated 37 million children aged 13-15 years worldwide use tobacco.
Our Region has the highest youth smoking rates in the world.
An alarming 15 per cent of boys in our Region use tobacco, and the number of boys and girls taking up smoking is rising.
In countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt, overall smoking rates are among the highest globally.
We must take action and protect the next generation.
By strengthening tobacco control measures—like banning flavours, placing graphic health warnings on packaging, restricting advertising, and increasing taxes—we can make a real difference.
The tobacco industry aggressively markets products like e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches to our young people.
These products are highly addictive and harmful, affecting brain development and leading to lifelong health problems.
Let us stand together and make it crystal clear:Â No more tricks. No more traps.
Let’s unite for a tobacco-free future.
