Cyprus reports rising student nicotine use

On Monday, the Cyprus Addiction Authority (AAEK) announced that Cyprus ranks tenth in Europe for hookah use among students. Speaking at the Creative Activity Centre in Larnaca to mark World No Tobacco Day, AAEK President Dr. Christos Minas highlighted a significant increase in e-cigarette usage among the youth. Dr. Minas stated that the organisation’s current campaign focuses on countering tobacco industry tactics that target adolescents through flavors and social media marketing. The Authority's National Strategy for 2021–2028 prioritizes legislative enforcement, smoke-free environments, and the implementation of clinical guidelines for nicotine dependence treatment. Maria Andreou, representing the Ministry of Health, confirmed that smoking remains a primary public health threat. New clinical guidelines for smoking cessation are being introduced to assist healthcare professionals. The initiative aims to protect children from tobacco products through coordinated awareness efforts and policy implementation.