Smoking Cessation Program Creates Customized Plan for Each Patient

Specialists at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi are reporting strong interest in the hospital’s Smoking Cessation program, as more people look to quit smoking during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

While people refrain from smoking during fasting hours, some people smoke more than usual during evening hours when meeting family and friends. In addition, consumption of shisha and medwakh can pose serious health risks to both smokers and those exposed to the smoke.

Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31, smokers are being urged to use the Holy Month – a period of reflection and spiritual awareness – to try to give up the deadly habit for good.

“It’s always the right time to quit smoking and we are encouraged to be seeing more people contacting the hospital about our Smoking Cessation program,” says Iyaad Hasan, a certified tobacco treatment specialist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

“Smoking addiction should be treated as a chronic disease. The best chance of successfully stopping smoking in the long term is to seek appropriate treatment. Having the proper medication and clinical support is the best method to help any individual rid themselves of this addiction,” he adds.

The health benefits of quitting smoking are clear. Beyond the immediate benefits that can be felt within hours of stopping, there are numerous long-term health benefits. Quitting smoking for more than a year significantly reduces a person’s risk of heart attack and stroke, both leading causes of death and disability.

Replicating the successful program from Cleveland Clinic in the US, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Smoking Cessation Program follows smokers from their decision to quit, through to life after smoking, creating a customized plan for each individual. The program takes participants beyond their quit date, helping them to avoid a relapse by offering diet and lifestyle tips, as well as information on how to avoid triggers to prevent a relapse.

2018 is the ‘Year of Zayed’ in the UAE, something Hasan hopes will spur smokers in the country to be inspired to make a positive change in their lives during Ramadan and beyond.

“The great leader Sheikh Zayed wanted the UAE to be the happiest country in the world. To be the happiest nation, the whole community needs to be the healthiest. I hope people take this opportunity and quit for good,” says Hasan.

Smokers who wish to break the habit can contact Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi at 800 8 CCAD (800 8 2223) or visit www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae.