UAE ministry: Smokers likely to get severe form of Covid-19

Dubai - The ministry has urged smokers to quit the habit - whether traditional or electronic.

Tobacco smokers are most likely to develop severe health complications if they contract Covid-19, the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has said.

The ministry has urged smokers to quit the habit - whether traditional or electronic.

MoHAP issued the appeal on the World No Tobacco Day 2021, observed on May 31.

It stressed the importance of redoubling international efforts to raise global awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco use. These include cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and mental disorders.

"Added to that is the economic burden, including direct costs such as the increase in healthcare spending, and indirect costs represented in the poor productivity of the community due to early deaths and disease prevalence," the MoHAP said.

The ministry highlighted how 12 UAE government entities have joined forces and formed a national committee for tobacco control.