The Dubai Health Authority’s (DHA) smoking cessation clinics recorded an increase in its quitting rate, said a top health official.
The clinics recorded an increase in the quitting rate from 11 per cent in 2012 to 17 per cent in 2015. Globally the quitting rate is between 10 to 20 per cent. Approximately 300 smokers visited the Al Twar and Al Barsha smoking cessation clinics in 2014, of which 95 per cent were male and 5 per cent were females.
Dr Hanan Obaid, head of acute and chronic disease unit, said: “In 2014, we focused on follow-up of patients; we ensured that after every session, we follow-up with them and ask them about how they are coping with the treatment. Furthermore, we sent several messages to ensure they do not miss their appointments. We also paid emphasis to behavioral change techniques and coping strategies.”
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