WHO Tunisia Urges Delaying the First Cigarette After Breaking the Fast During Ramadan
The World Health Organization (WHO) office in Tunisia has highlighted the importance of postponing the first cigarette—whether a traditional tobacco product or an alternative such as e‑cigarettes or heated tobacco—for as long as possible after the evening meal (iftar) and throughout the month of Ramadan. The agency recommends replacing the strong urge to smoke with sport, cultural, or recreational activities to divert attention from harmful nicotine dependence.
Key Recommendations from WHO Tunisia
- Delay smoking after iftar as much as you can.
- If the craving hits, try one of the following:
- Take 10 deep breaths.
- Wait until the intense urge passes.
- Drink water instead of lighting up.
- Stay occupied with activities such as:
- Reading a book.
- Doing light exercise or a short walk.
- Engaging in family conversations.
- Practicing any cultural or recreational hobby.
“Ramadan offers a natural, several‑hour abstinence window that can be leveraged to cut nicotine dependence,” the WHO post on its Facebook page read on Thursday.
Why Ramadan Is a Strategic Moment to Quit Smoking
- Extended fasting periods naturally limit opportunities to smoke, weakening the habit loop.
- The month encourages patience and self‑control, essential skills for resisting cravings.
- Successfully navigating the fasting period can serve as a launchpad for a healthier, smoke‑free lifestyle beyond Ramadan.
Smoking Statistics in Tunisia (2021)
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Adults using e‑cigarettes | 15.2 % |
| Male smokers (any tobacco) | 48.3 % |
| Tobacco‑related deaths – men | 15.3 % of male mortality |
| Tobacco‑related deaths – women | 3.9 % of female mortality |
These figures underline the high prevalence of tobacco use, especially among men, and its significant contribution to premature deaths.
Alarming Trends Among Youth
Hatem Bouziane, president of the Tunisian Alliance for the Fight Against Tobacco, previously warned that 25 % of school‑aged children in Tunisia are smokers. He emphasized that this proportion is continuously rising, driven by the emergence of new tobacco products—e‑cigarettes, heated tobacco, and other novel forms—marketed by major tobacco corporations. These products are specifically designed to attract younger generations, despite well‑documented health risks.
Take Action This Ramadan
- Plan a smoke‑free iftar and keep water, a book, or a sport kit handy.
- Involve family members in your effort; shared activities reinforce commitment.
- Track your progress and celebrate each day you delay smoking.
By turning Ramadan into a strategic quitting window, you can break the nicotine cycle and set the foundation for a long‑term, healthier lifestyle.
For more information and resources on quitting tobacco, visit the WHO Tunisia Facebook page or contact local health services.
