Tobacco smoking patterns in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: a comprehensive analysis of trends before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic
Zufishan Alam, Iffat Elbarazi, Budoor Al Shehhi, Maha Mohamed AlSafi, Mariam Al Wahedi, Ilfat Assaad Maarouf, Aamir Hassan, Mohammed Al-Houqani

TL;DR
This study examines how tobacco smoking rates in Abu Dhabi changed before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, finding a decline in use and highlighting the need for continued prevention efforts.
Contribution
The study provides new insights into smoking trends in Abu Dhabi, particularly the impact of the pandemic and the rising popularity of Midwakh.
Findings
Tobacco smoking prevalence decreased from 19.1% in 2019 to 13.5% in 2022–2023.
Midwakh and cigarette smoking were the most common methods, with higher rates among men and UAE nationals.
Smoking rates dropped during and after the pandemic, suggesting behavioral changes that need to be sustained.
Abstract
Tobacco smoking is a leading yet preventable risk factor for morbidity and mortality worldwide. As in western countries, the Arab world also encounters the growing tobacco epidemic. Assessment of smoking prevalence is a key step in identification of emerging trends, thus enabling planning of preventive measures. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of tobacco smoking among applicants of the Premarital Screening Program, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates during 2019–2023. Data was collected from all participants who applied for the program, through a questionnaire enquiring about tobacco smoking habits and methods of use. Overall smoking prevalence was assessed for the five-year period, as well as individually for each year. Smoking patterns were observed for three distinct COVID-19 periods: pre-COVID (2019), peri-COVID (2020–21) and post-COVID (2022–23). The smoking patterns…
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Taxonomy
TopicsSmoking Behavior and Cessation · Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Research · School Health and Nursing Education
