Quit or Switch: The urgency of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) strategy in Ghana to reduce the harm caused by smoking
October 28, 2024 by myjoyonline.com
Quit or Switch: The urgency of Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) strategy in Ghana to reduce the harm caused by smoking
Combustible tobacco remains a major cause of preventable disease globally, leading to serious health consequences from nicotine addiction and tar exposure. As the world addresses tobacco-related illnesses, many countries are turning to Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR), an approach focused on reducing smoking's health risks by offering safer alternatives. The THR approach is particularly pressing in high-smoking regions. Ghana, in particular, stands at a crucial juncture, where embracing strategies based on controlled approaches—like "quit or switch"—could reduce tobacco-related diseases, marking a shift from the traditional "Quit or Die" stance to a more flexible, life-saving approach.
2.40% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 453,184 current smokers in Ghana 4.40% of men are current smokers but only 0.30% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR