According to the latest national Stepwise Survey, conducted by the Ministry of Health with the support of WHO, 66.1% of males smoke tobacco, in addition to 15.9% of men of the same group using electronic cigarettes. This ranks Jordan as one of the countries with the highest rates of tobacco use in the world. WHO and partners have been at the forefront of the fight against tobacco, and these renewed endeavours align seamlessly with the continuous work that has been undertaken since the early adoption of the WHO FCTC. Through strategic partnerships, we develop culturally sensitive campaigns and real actions that educate and empower the public about the multifaceted risks associated with tobacco use.
Furthermore, the recent successful Twitter storm orchestrated by the Ministry of Health and WHO with partners stands as a testament to our dedication in raising public awareness about the hazards of smoking, thereby amplifying the reach of our collective efforts.
The scale of the human and economic tragedy that tobacco use imposes is shocking, and preventable. The tobacco industry is fighting to ensure that the dangers of their products are concealed, but we are fighting back. As part of our ongoing commitment, we extend our appreciation to His Majesty King Abdullah II for his unwavering dedication to the health and prosperity of the nation.
About WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Jordan is dedicated to promoting health and well-being, preventing disease and improving the quality of life for all residents of Jordan. By working hand in hand with Government, nongovernmental organizations and local communities, WHO aims to address health challenges and elevate the nation's overall well-being.
About the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control
The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) is an international treaty adopted by the World Health Assembly in 2003. It represents a milestone in the global response to the tobacco epidemic, serving as a comprehensive framework for governments to implement effective tobacco control measures. The WHO FCTC aims to reduce tobacco-related illnesses, deaths, and the social and economic burden caused by tobacco consumption. Jordan signed the WHO FCTC on 28 May 2004.
