The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched its inaugural clinical treatment guideline for tobacco cessation, providing a comprehensive set of interventions to help adults quit various tobacco products. This landmark guideline aims to support the over 750 million tobacco users worldwide who wish to quit, offering a range of evidence-based recommendations.
Comprehensive Interventions for Tobacco Cessation
The new guideline recommends a variety of interventions to assist individuals in quitting tobacco, including:
- Behavioral Support Tobacco Cessation in Adults: Delivered by healthcare providers through brief counselling sessions (30 seconds to 3 minutes) and more intensive individual, group, or phone counselling.
- Digital Cessation Tools: Utilizing text messaging, smartphone apps, and internet programs as adjuncts or self-management tools.
- Pharmacological Treatments: Including varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and cytisine.
“These guidelines mark a crucial milestone in our global battle against these dangerous products,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “They empower countries with the essential tools to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviate the global burden of tobacco-related diseases.”
Addressing the Global Demand for Cessation Services
More than 60% of the world’s 1.25 billion tobacco users—over 750 million people—express a desire to quit. However, around 70% lack access to effective cessation services due to resource limitations and other challenges within health systems. The WHO’s guideline seeks to bridge this gap by providing accessible, effective cessation treatments.
“The immense struggle that people face when trying to quit smoking cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO. “We need to deeply appreciate the strength it takes and the suffering endured by individuals and their loved ones to overcome this addiction. These guidelines are designed to help communities and governments provide the best possible support and assistance for those on this challenging journey.”
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Effective Therapies for Quitting Tobacco
Combining pharmacotherapy with behavioral interventions significantly increases the success rates for quitting tobacco. The guideline encourages countries to make these treatments available at no or reduced cost, particularly in low- and middle-income regions.
WHO-Recommended Treatments for Tobacco Cessation in Adults
- Varenicline: An effective prescription medication that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Includes products like nicotine gum and patches, which deliver controlled amounts of nicotine to ease withdrawal.
- Bupropion: A medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Cytisine: A plant-based alkaloid used to reduce the urge to smoke.
In 2023, WHO initiated a prequalification procedure for medicinal products to address disorders caused by tobacco use, aiming to improve global access to recommended cessation medications. By April 2024, Kenvue’s nicotine gum and patch became the first WHO-prequalified NRT products.
Behavioral and Digital Interventions
The guideline emphasizes the importance of behavioral support, recommending routine brief counselling by health workers in healthcare settings. More intensive support can be provided through individual, group, or phone counselling sessions for those interested. Additionally, digital interventions such as text messaging, smartphone apps, and internet programs can enhance the cessation process.
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Encouraging Global Adoption
WHO urges healthcare providers, policymakers, and stakeholders to adopt and implement this guideline to promote tobacco cessation and improve global health outcomes. By integrating these comprehensive interventions into healthcare systems, millions of people can receive the support they need to quit tobacco and lead healthier lives.
The release of WHO’s first-ever clinical treatment guideline for tobacco cessation represents a significant step forward in the fight against tobacco addiction. By providing effective tools and strategies, this guideline aims to reduce the global burden of tobacco-related diseases and support individuals in their journey to quit tobacco. (Source)
