The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first comprehensive guideline on tobacco cessation, recommending a range of interventions including behavioural support by healthcare providers, digital cessation tools, and pharmacological treatments. The guideline, unveiled on Wednesday, aims to assist over 750 million tobacco users worldwide who are seeking to quit.
The recommendations cater to all adults aiming to quit various tobacco products, including cigarettes, waterpipes, smokeless tobacco products, cigars, roll-your-own tobacco, and heated tobacco products.
“This guideline marks a crucial milestone in our global battle against these dangerous products,” said WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus. “It empowers countries with essential tools to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviate the global burden of tobacco-related diseases.”
Despite 60 percent of the world’s 1.25 billion tobacco users wanting to quit, 70 percent lack access to effective cessation services due to health system challenges, including resource limitations.
“The immense struggle people face when trying to quit smoking cannot be overstated. We need to deeply appreciate the strength it takes and the suffering endured by individuals and their loved ones to overcome this addiction,” said Dr. Rüdiger Krech, WHO’s Director of Health Promotion. “These guidelines are designed to help communities and governments provide the best possible support for those on this challenging journey.”
The WHO emphasizes that combining pharmacotherapy with behavioural interventions significantly increases the chances of quitting. Countries are encouraged to provide these treatments at low or no cost, especially in low- and middle-income nations.
WHO recommends several effective treatments for tobacco cessation, including varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and cytisine. In 2023, WHO initiated a prequalification procedure for medicinal products addressing tobacco use disorders to enhance global access to recommended cessation medications. In April 2024, Kenvue’s nicotine gum and patch became the first WHO-prequalified NRT products.
The guidelines also highlight the importance of behavioural interventions, such as brief health worker counselling (lasting 30 seconds to three minutes) provided routinely in healthcare settings, alongside more intensive behavioural support (individual, group, or phone counselling) for those interested. Additionally, digital interventions like text messaging, smartphone apps, and internet programs can serve as adjuncts or self-management tools.
“WHO encourages healthcare providers, policymakers, and stakeholders to adopt and implement this guideline to promote tobacco cessation and improve the health of millions worldwide,” the organization added.
