Jennifer Mendoza
Research expert covering health, pharma and medtech
Smoking in the Middle East and North Africa region - statistics & facts
Despite global efforts to reduce smoking rates, the prevalence of tobacco use in the MENA region remains high. Some countries, such as Lebanon, have a prevalence of smokers reaching as high as 37 percent. Cultural norms, social acceptance, and limited public health campaigns contribute to sustained smoking rates. Tobacco consumption patterns often involve regular use in social settings, such as cafes and gatherings, where smoking is considered a cultural tradition. However, this habit has contributed to a significant burden of tobacco-related diseases in the region, including lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory ailments.
