Panel urges regional unity against tobacco industry tactics

KUWAIT: On the occasion of World No-Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31, the Kuwait Society for Controlling Smoking and Cancer hosted a virtual panel discussion titled: “Decision Makers… Methods of Promoting Smoking.” The event brought together experts and specialists in tobacco control to examine the influence of industry tactics and propose effective counter-strategies.

Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, a board member of the society, moderated the discussion, welcoming participants and underscoring the need for dialogue between decision-makers and civil society to shape policies that curb tobacco use.

Key speakers included Dr Khalid Ahmed Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Society; Dr Ibtihal Fadel, Chair of the Eastern Mediterranean NCD Alliance; Dr Fatima Al-Awa, Regional Advisor for the Tobacco Free Initiative at the World Health Organization (WHO); and Dr Amal Al-Yahya, Rapporteur of the National Program to Combat Smoking.

The symposium opened with a presentation by Dr Fatima Al-Awa, titled “Debunking Tobacco Companies.” She highlighted the misleading marketing practices of tobacco companies targeting youth, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean region, where consumption is on the rise. Dr Al-Awa warned of the industry’s efforts to influence health policies, which undermines regional tobacco control efforts. She concluded by presenting WHO’s key recommendations—strengthening governance, protecting policy-making from commercial influence, and increasing taxes on tobacco products—as critical steps to reduce consumption.

Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen

Dr Khalid Al-Saleh

Next, Dr Khalid Al-Saleh delivered a presentation on “The Health Effects of Smoking and its Alternatives.” He reviewed recent data linking tobacco use to various cancers and debunked claims that alternatives like e-cigarettes are “less harmful.” Citing emerging scientific evidence, he stressed that no form of tobacco use is safe and that full cessation remains the only effective option. Dr Al-Saleh emphasized the importance of regional collaboration among NGOs, in partnership with WHO, to counter the influence of tobacco companies.

Dr Ibtihal Fadel followed with a presentation on “The Role of NGOs in Tobacco Control,” emphasizing the importance of activating civil society’s role in shaping health policy and public awareness campaigns. She noted that social media is a powerful tool for reaching young people—the primary target of tobacco advertising—and urged NGOs to expose deceptive marketing and push for stricter laws. Dr Fadel also highlighted successful case studies from the region and called for a cultural shift that frames smoking as a socially and medically unacceptable behavior. She concluded by pointing to the upcoming high-level meeting on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as a vital opportunity to mobilize support for regional and global tobacco control.

Finally, Dr Amal Al-Yahya presented on “The Importance of an Integrated Approach in Confronting the Tobacco Industry.” She shared recent data on smoking rates in Kuwait, particularly among youth, and outlined national policies aligned with WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Dr Al-Yahya advocated for a cross-sectoral strategy—engaging health, education, and legislative bodies—to counter industry influence and strengthen preventive efforts.

The session closed with remarks from Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, who thanked the speakers and participants for their contributions, highlighting the value of continued collaboration and scientific dialogue in this critical public health area. This event is part of the society’s broader mission to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco, advocate for stronger public health policies, and promote smoke-free environments in line with Kuwait’s national and international commitments.