By Lisa Lamya 

Blantyre, July 5, Mana: Executive Director for Drug Fight Malawi, Nelson Zakeyu, has applauded the World Health Organization (WHO) for the new guidelines on quitting smoking, saying it has come at a right time when other tobacco manufacturers are deceiving people with fake methods of quitting tobacco use.

Zakeyu made the sentiments following the release of the first-ever clinical treatment guideline for adults who wish to quit smoking.

“There is substantial evidence through studies conducted worldwide that six million people die annually from tobacco smoking and Malawi is not spared. These guidelines will help alleviate problems as a result of smoking if domesticated in our land and when they’re implemented effectively,” Zakeyu said.

The guideline focuses on helping more than 750 million tobacco consumers who want to quit all forms of tobacco.

In the guidelines, WHO has recommended a comprehensive set of tobacco quitting interventions, including behavioral support delivered by health care providers, digital interventions and pharmacological treatments.

WHO Director General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, described the guidelines as a crucial milestone in the global battle against the dangerous products.

“It empowers countries with essential tools to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviate the global burden of tobacco related diseases,” he said.

WHO Director of Health Promotion, Dr. Rudiger Krech, said the immense struggle that people face when trying to quit smoking cannot be overemphasized and that there is need to deeply appreciate the strength it takes to overcome the addiction.

“These guidelines are designed to help communities and governments provide the best possible support and assistance to those on this challenging journey,” Krech added.