Health official attributes tobacco price hike to rising cancer rates in Jordan

Dr. Munther Al-Hawarat, Assistant Director-General for Patient Affairs at the King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), said that the increasing rate of cancer cases led to the recent government decision to raise tobacco prices in Jordan.

In an interview with Roya, Al-Hawarat noted that smoking is a major cause of various cancers, including lung, bladder, larynx, and mouth cancers. He highlighted that lung cancer patients make up 25 percent of all registered cancer cases in Jordan.

Al-Hawarat warned of a potential rise in cancer cases over the coming years, particularly lung cancer. He stated that by 2040, cancer cases could reach 20,000 annually, which would require Jordan to double its capacity to treat patients.

Regarding electronic cigarettes, Al-Hawarat pointed out that they can cause even more severe and rapidly fatal health problems than traditional cancers. He specifically cautioned young people under 18 against vaping.

Cost of Treatment

Al-Hawarat noted that the current cost of cancer treatment in Jordan stands at JD 350 million, a figure projected to rise to 500 million by 2030, potentially reaching one billion by 2040. He emphasized that the human cost, not just the financial burden, is the most significant.

Tobacco Price Hike

Commenting on the government's decision to raise tobacco prices, Al-Hawarat stated that while it won't entirely stop cancer cases, it plays a crucial role in the overall strategy. Studies show that in developed countries, smoking rates decrease by 4-5 percent following price hikes, while in developing nations, the reduction is around 8 percent.

Healthy Lifestyle

Al-Hawarat urged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles by following cancer prevention strategies such as early detection, treatment, and prevention. He encouraged regular exercise, healthy eating, limiting red meat consumption, and quitting smoking.

He also mentioned that 27 centers in Jordan are dedicated to helping people quit smoking.

Tax Adjustments on Tobacco

The government has decided to adjust taxes on tobacco as part of the national strategy to combat all forms of smoking, with the changes set to take effect on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

The decision aims to curb the rapid spread of electronic smoking, particularly among children, and to address the significant tax differences between traditional cigarettes and their alternatives.