Health

WHO urges Morocco to intensify efforts against rising tobacco use

Friday 10 October 2025 - 17:20

By: Dakir Madiha

WHO urges Morocco to intensify efforts against rising tobacco use

Morocco is facing growing concern over its high smoking rates, as new data from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals more than 3.5 million adult smokers in 2024, including around 160,000 women. The findings, published in the WHO report Global trends in tobacco use prevalence 2000-2024, show that 12.6% of Moroccans aged 15 and above smoke. Among men, the rate reaches 24%, while only 1.2% of women report smoking.

Experts warn that these figures expose a serious public health issue with heavy social and economic consequences. Although women’s smoking rates remain relatively low, the prevalence among men continues to rise, contributing to increased risks of heart disease, respiratory illness, and multiple forms of cancer.

Health authorities and civil society organizations have launched awareness campaigns to reduce tobacco use, yet persistent challenges remain. The widespread normalization of smoking in certain social settings, combined with aggressive tobacco advertising and easy retail access, continues to undermine anti-smoking initiatives.

Specialists are calling for stronger preventive measures. Suggested strategies include youth-oriented education programs, higher tobacco taxes, tighter regulation of sales to minors, and enhanced cessation services such as counseling, telephone helplines, and access to nicotine replacement therapies.

Public health advocates emphasize that reversing current smoking trends will require long-term commitment and stronger enforcement of tobacco control policies. Reducing consumption is viewed as essential not only for safeguarding public health but also for easing the economic strain caused by tobacco-related diseases.