Tobacco use is a global health problem with 1.13 billion smokers and 8 million deaths annually, including 1.2 million from second-hand smoke. It is a burden on individuals, communities and economies, causing various diseases and preventable deaths. Tobacco is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases such as chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.

The negative effects of tobacco use on health are well documented. However, giving up tobacco and quitting can be a challenging process, but the journey towards a tobacco-free life can be made easier with the right support. Pharmacists have an important role to play in helping tobacco users quit and remain abstinent. Pharmacists’ expertise and accessibility ensure they are ideal providers of evidence-based advice, medication and support to those who want to break their addiction to and dependence on tobacco.