President of the Continuing Medical Education Association of Ben Arous Calls Ramadan a Prime Opportunity to Quit Smoking
Dr. Hela Antit, president of the Association de Formation Continue des Médecins de Ben Arous, announced on Wednesday that the month of Ramadan offers a genuine chance for smokers to stop smoking. She urged smokers to seize this favorable period to begin a tobacco‑cessation program, relying first and foremost on a firm personal will and on the medical support available in public health facilities.
Why Ramadan Helps
In a statement to the Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP) agency, Dr. Antit explained that fasting imposes an abstinence period that can last up to twelve hours a day, which naturally encourages a gradual reduction in nicotine dependence. This daily deprivation helps the body become accustomed to functioning without tobacco and, over time, facilitates a lasting quit.
Free Medical Support
The physician also highlighted that most public university hospital pulmonology departments provide specialized smoking‑cessation consultations. These services are completely free and may include, when necessary, nicotine‑replacement therapies such as patches to ease withdrawal symptoms.
Key to Success
Dr. Antit concluded by reminding readers that the success of quitting during Ramadan hinges on:
- A sincere decision to stop smoking
- Constant determination throughout the fasting month
- Appropriate medical supervision and support
By combining personal resolve with the free, professional assistance offered by public health institutions, smokers can turn Ramadan into a powerful catalyst for a healthier, smoke‑free life.
