فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Fes, Morocco – May 31, 2025 – Like other countries around the world, Morocco observes World No Tobacco Day on May 31st each year. On this occasion, the Regional Directorate of Health and Social Protection in the Fes-Meknes region is highlighting the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of smoking and the benefits of quitting, as part of its strategy to improve public health.
Quitting smoking is a crucial step to avoid tobacco-related deaths and diseases. The health benefits increase with earlier cessation, even after the onset of some illnesses. Smoking is a global public health problem, being the leading cause of preventable deaths and diseases. Global statistics indicate that tobacco use causes nearly 8 million deaths annually, with approximately 1.2 million individuals exposed to secondhand smoke. This number is projected to rise to 30 million deaths by 2030, with 80% of these fatalities concentrated in developing countries.
Nationally, the National Survey on Risk Factors for Non-Communicable Diseases (2018) shows that 13.4% of adults in Morocco are smokers, comprising 26.9% of men and 0.4% of women. The average age for starting smoking is 18.9 years for males and 23.4 years for females. Furthermore, the prevalence of smoking among students aged 13-15 years is 6% (2016), while approximately 35.6% of the population is exposed to secondhand smoke in public and professional settings.
In line with the national directives and strategies of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Regional Directorate of Health in the Fes-Meknes region is mobilizing its staff to achieve its objectives. This is being done through the implementation of awareness and sensitization mechanisms in various health institutions, and the dissemination of signage promoting non-smoking in public places, hospitals, and health administrations, in accordance with Law 15-91. Awareness materials are also being distributed, and public service announcements are being broadcast on official pages, social media networks, waiting rooms, and various public spaces to raise awareness about the harms of smoking and the importance of quitting. Additionally, the Directorate is accelerating medical consultation initiatives to assist with smoking cessation in health institutions according to established guidelines, while also establishing a follow-up committee for various activities at the regional and provincial levels.
Communication and Media Unit
Regional Directorate of Health and Social Protection
Fes-Meknes Region
