Amman: The Ministry of Health unveiled the national survey on tobacco use prevalence findings among adults in Jordan, covering individuals aged 15 and above. The results, released on Tuesday, revealed alarming statistics, highlighting the widespread nature of tobacco use in Jordanian society.
According to Jordan News Agency, the survey was conducted as part of the national strategy to combat tobacco use in all its forms, following royal directives aimed at preventing the harms of smoking and protecting public health. The Ministry of Health conducted the survey with support from the European Union, through the Spanish Cooperation Office (Care Program), and in collaboration with the Centre for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan.
Health Minister Firas Hawari expressed concern over the study’s findings, revealing that one in two individuals in Jordan uses tobacco. He highlighted the connection between tobacco use and the rising rates of cancer, which have increased by 40%, as well as the significant risks posed to women and the wider population. Hawari called on parents and institutions to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and smoking in all its forms.
Government Communication Minister Mohammad Momani called the results “dangerous, embarrassing and shocking.” He emphasised that despite Jordanians’ relatively high levels of education and cultural awareness, smoking rates remain concerning, and more efforts are needed to address the issue. Momani urged media outlets and journalists to help raise awareness about the health risks of smoking.
Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Azmi Mahafzah outlined initiatives to educate students about the dangers of smoking, including school radio broadcasts and guidance from educational counsellors. He noted that measures have been implemented to prevent smoking on university campuses and prohibit the sale of tobacco products in educational institutions.
Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and Holy Places Mohammad Khalayleh discussed preserving public health in line with Islamic teachings, which prioritise protecting human life. He urged Jordanians to change their habits and quit smoking, as it is considered religiously prohibited.
Director of Health Awareness and Media at the Ministry of Health Ghaith Owais presented the survey results, which showed that the overall prevalence of smoking in Jordan reached 51.6%. The survey found that 53% of Jordanians are smokers, while 49% of non-Jordanians report smoking. Smoking rates were higher among males, at 71.2%, compared to 28.8% among females, placing Jordan among the countries with the highest smoking rates globally.
The survey found significant smoking rates among younger populations, with 59% of those aged 25-34, 50% of those aged 18-24, and 31% of those aged 15-17 reporting tobacco use. Eight-three per cent of smokers began the habit before the age of 24, and 43% of Jordanians smoke daily, averaging 22 cigarettes per day.
Regarding specific tobacco products, the survey revealed that 35.3% of smokers currently use manufactured cigarettes, with 86% of them being male. Hookah use was reported by 14% of participants, with a slightly higher percentage among females (54%) than males (46%). The use of heated tobacco and electronic cigarettes was also noted, with 4.1% and 7.2 % of participants reporting use, respectively.
The survey showed that 78% of respondents believe all tobacco products are equally harmful, while 20% think some products are less harmful. In terms of quitting, 37% of smokers had attempted to quit within the past year, and 60% expressed a desire to stop smoking, citing health concerns and a wish to be role models for their children.
On the issue of tobacco taxation, 75% of non-smokers supported increased taxes on tobacco products, while 33% of smokers were in favour. A majority (52%) of respondents considered smoking to be religiously forbidden (haram), while 44% viewed it as reprehensible. The survey examined smoking in public places, with 33% of participants reporting seeing smoking in healthcare facilities, 44% in government offices, 70% in university buildings, 32% in schools and 62% on public transport.
The average monthly expenditure on manufactured cigarettes was reported as JOD 78 per smoker, with lower expenditures for heated tobacco devices, heating sticks and electronic cigarettes. Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Directorate Anas Muhtaseb noted that the survey results align with the rising incidence of cancer, particularly among women linked to smoking.