Kuwait’s Smoking Cessation Rate Rises to 9%

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Kuwait's smoking cessation rate increased from 7 percent in 2024 to 9 percent in 2026, reflecting progress amid intensified awareness campaigns led by health authorities. This is particularly important given WHO's warnings about the rise of nicotine pouch use and the significant reproductive health risks associated with smoking highlighted in recent studies.

Kuwait has seen an increase in its smoking cessation rate, rising from 7 percent in 2024 to 9 percent in 2026, according to Dr. Khalid Al-Saleh, President of the Kuwaiti Association for the Prevention of Smoking and Cancer. Dr. Al-Saleh emphasized the importance of ongoing awareness campaigns about the health risks associated with smoking and the use of nicotine products, particularly targeting young people and adolescents.

This development comes amid growing concerns raised by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the rapid rise in the use of nicotine pouches. The WHO reported that global sales of nicotine pouches surpassed 23 billion units in 2024, representing a more than 50 percent increase from the previous year, with the market value reaching about $7 billion in 2025. Dr. Al-Saleh cautioned against marketing tactics employed by manufacturers, including flavored products, attractive packaging, and promotions through social media influencers as well as sponsorships in sports and music, which may appeal especially to younger demographics.

The WHO’s latest scientific findings, published in September 2026, also underscore the broader health implications of smoking, particularly its impact on fertility. A systematic review of studies from 2000 to 2026 found that women who currently smoke face a 40 percent higher risk of infertility compared to non-smokers. Additionally, an analysis of 44 studies involving over 60,000 men linked smoking to sperm abnormalities and sexual dysfunction. The WHO report further noted that smoking could reduce the effectiveness of certain fertility treatments and that exposure to secondhand smoke may carry similar reproductive risks.

Dr. Al-Saleh called on smokers who intend to quit to utilize the specialized cessation services available, including medical support and counseling offered at Kuwait's smoking cessation clinics. He highlighted that quitting smoking is a crucial step in improving health outcomes and lowering the risk of tobacco-related diseases. Those interested in registering or seeking information about cessation programs can contact the clinics directly through the provided helpline.

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