The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Ghana Health Service, and various Civil Society Organisations, has expressed concern regarding the rising consumption of tobacco and nicotine products in Ghana.
In a statement released on May 31 to commemorate World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2025, the Ministry emphasized this year’s theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.”
The Ministry cited findings from the STEP Survey, which reveals that 4.8% of adults aged 18–69 are current tobacco smokers. The statistics indicate a gender disparity: 9.3% of men versus 0.3% of women. Among those who use tobacco, 7.8% smoke shisha, with the highest rates found in individuals aged 18–29 (12.7%). While 6.6% of male smokers use shisha, a significant 44.0% of female smokers do so.
The Ministry pointed out that tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths, associated with health issues such as lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reproductive health complications. Furthermore, it noted that exposure to second-hand smoke heightens the risk of respiratory infections and asthma.
Source: HotFmOnline.com
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