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The Ministry of Health, together with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), World Health Organisation (WHO), Ghana Health Service, and civil society groups, has expressed concern about the growing use of tobacco and nicotine products in Ghana.
In a statement released on May 31 to mark World No Tobacco Day 2025, the Ministry highlighted the theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.”
According to the Ministry, recent survey data (STEP Survey) shows that 4.8% of adults aged 18–69 currently smoke tobacco. The numbers show a big gender gap—9.3% of men smoke compared to just 0.3% of women.
The data also shows that shisha is becoming more popular, especially among young people. About 7.8% of tobacco users smoke shisha, with the highest usage (12.7%) among people aged 18–29. Among women who smoke, 44% use shisha, compared to 6.6% of men.
The Ministry warned that tobacco use causes serious health problems such as lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and breathing disorders like COPD. Second-hand smoke can also cause asthma and other illnesses, especially in children.
“These alarming figures show the urgent need for stronger laws and more public education,” the Ministry said. It reminded the public that the sale and advertising of vapes, e-cigarettes (ENDS), and similar products are illegal under Ghana’s Public Health Act and Tobacco Control Regulations.
The Ministry said this year’s campaign aims to expose how the tobacco industry is targeting the youth and trying to make nicotine use look normal.
To mark World No Tobacco Day, the Ministry announced several activities, including an official launch and a public health walk in Ho, in the Volta Region.
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