Amman, Feb. 18 (Petra) -- The Coalition of Health Associations unveiled its first national awareness campaign, titled "Ramadan Without Smoking," during a ceremony held at the National Library of Jordan, with broad participation from health professionals, medical students and members of the local community.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the coalition said the initiative reflects a coordinated effort among several active health associations to address tobacco use as a major public health challenge. It highlighted the need for unified national action to curb smoking and mitigate its health, social, and economic repercussions, particularly ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, which represents an opportunity to encourage behavioral change and the adoption of healthier lifestyles.

Participants outlined the adverse health effects of conventional tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, underscoring their association with chronic respiratory diseases and other non-communicable diseases. They also addressed the impact of smoking on laboratory diagnostics, noting its potential to compromise the accuracy of certain clinical test results.

Presentations highlighted epidemiological data linking tobacco use to cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke, as well as various forms of cancer. Speakers further examined the implications of smoking for rare and genetic disorders, its potential role in genetic mutations, and its detrimental effects on male and female fertility.

The economic burden of tobacco consumption on individuals and households was also discussed, with speakers calling for the reallocation of smoking-related expenditures toward preventive healthcare and insurance coverage.

Participants stressed the importance of expanding community-based awareness campaigns and strengthening institutional partnerships between health authorities and civil society organizations to reduce tobacco prevalence and foster a culture of cessation, particularly among youth.

The coalition announced plans to roll out additional awareness programs and outreach activities in the coming months, focusing on tobacco control and the prevention of chronic diseases, as part of a broader national effort to safeguard public health and promote sustainable, healthy behaviors for future generations.

//Petra// AJ