According to a report by RIA VladNews, the number of people seeking help to quit smoking in the Primorsky Krai region of the Russian Far East has been increasing every year. Since the beginning of 2023 until now, a total of 922 individuals have sought assistance from the region’s Narcological dispensary, with 138 being women and 35 being minors.
Medical professionals further clarify that among patients with nicotine addiction, not only are there cigarette smokers, but also an increasing number of e-cigarette users and hookah enthusiasts.
Director of Health Dr. Arkady Yuhimenko expresses that, “In recent years, the growth in smoking rates has started to slow down. However, the consumption of other nicotine-containing products such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, hookahs, and smokeless tobacco products is increasing. Furthermore, their health risks are no different from smoking.”
The chief physician further added that the county-level outpatient clinic for psychiatric medications offers a free program to treat nicotine addiction, developing personalized treatment plans for patients.
