Unification of smoking cessation clinics across the UAE

This new development is part of an initiative to create a structured and homogeneous system for smoking cessation clinics across the UAE to strengthen their presence in the emirates.

Dr Mahmoud Fikry, Assistant Under-Secretary for Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health, gave the opening address.

The clinics, set up by the Ministry of Health and Novartis Consumer Health currently provide smokers with comprehensive therapy and guidance to quit the smoking habit.

The workshop focused on the system and nation-wide guidelines that will soon be implemented to improve the clinics' services and streamline processes.

"The clinics have been successful in terms of providing the public with the right support and tools to assist smoking cessation, now it is time to put into operation an integrated system that will enhance the clinics performance," commented Dr Mahmoud Fikry.

Dr. Ahmed Abdulla, Specialist and Head of Smoking Cessation Unit, Preventive Medicine, conducted the training session on how to operate smoking cessation clinics effectively. He also conducted a seminar on nicotine addiction and treatment patterns used in the clinics.

"As medical professionals, we know that nicotine addiction, as with any addiction, is not easy to tackle. Understanding the dependence helps us tackle sensitive issues that may otherwise be over looked. Treatment should not only include physical therapy but must also consider the emotional aspects. This way we can offer a more comprehensive solution," said Dr. Abdulla.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is internationally recognised as the only effective treatment for smoking cessation. "According to the American Heart Association, NRT is safe and effective when used as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program," said Rany Victor, Senior Brand & Sales Institutional Manager for Novartis Consumer Health. "Nicotinell gum and patches are available at all clinics and we are offering these treatments free of charge to all UAE Nationals who register to use the program," he added

The Ministry of Health and Novartis Consumer Health have actively launched several campaigns as part of the nation's strategy to abolish smoking in the UAE, the setting up of the clinics being one of them. On June 1, 2008 three clinics were opened - one in Ajman, one in Fujariah and a second one in Dubai, in the Preventative Medicine Department. There are currently six clinics in operation including Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah