From first puff to lung cancer: UAE doctors explain smoking addiction, surge in vaping, and how to quit

Dubai: As the world observes World No Tobacco Day, medical experts in the UAE are sounding the alarm over the growing trend of smoking and vaping, particularly among youth. Doctors are calling for urgent awareness campaigns and robust support systems to combat what they describe as a “silent killer”.

Health professionals noted that people often begin smoking for a variety of reasons, including peer influence and social pressure, especially among teenagers; curiosity and the desire to experiment; and as a way to cope with stress or manage emotional challenges. In some cases, family or parental influence normalises smoking, making it seem like an acceptable habit. The cultural and cinematic representation of smoking can further reinforce these perceptions, especially among the youth.

“Nicotine is highly addictive. It stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, causing pleasure and reward patterns which are hard to leave behind,” said Dr Saheer Sainalabdeen, Specialist Pulmonologist at Medeor Hospital in Dubai.

The withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, headaches, irritability, and intense cravings often lead to relapse. Moreover, habitual routines, psychological dependence, and lack of support make quitting even harder.
“It is hard to quit smoking, but with good strategies and support, it is completely possible,” he said.

“Marking World No Tobacco Day, it's important to spark conversations especially as more youngsters fall into the trap of smoking and vaping, unaware of the risks,” said Dr Annu Susan George, Consultant Medical Oncology, Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, Al Qusais. She pointed out that 90 per cent of lung cancer cases are caused by smoking and the risk for long-term smokers is up to 30 times higher.

“Even passive smoking increases your chances by 30 per cent.  This is a silent killer, and the numbers are frightening,” she said.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there has been a dramatic uptick in vaping and e-cigarette use, particularly among young adults. In the UAE, local studies also indicate a high usage among university students.

Experts attribute this rise to factors such as targeted marketing, the appeal of flavoured products, and the perception of vaping as a “safer alternative” to traditional smoking.

“There is a marked rise in vaping and e-cigarette use, especially among young people, partly due to perceptions that they are less harmful and easier to access,” Dr Ahmed ElMansoury, Consultant Pulmonologist, NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah, said.
“However, these devices also deliver nicotine and can lead to addiction, sometimes serving as a gateway to traditional smoking.”

Dr Muhammed Shafeeq Kalladi, Specialist Pulmonology, Aster Hospital Qusais, underlined that quitting smoking is more than just a test of willpower.
“It involves overcoming physical addiction, emotional triggers, and deeply embedded behavioural patterns. Raising awareness is crucial. People need to understand that smoking is a public health issue, not a personal weakness.”

Dr Kalladi pointed out evidence-based methods such as behavioural therapy, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), prescription medications, and digital tools like quit-smoking apps and virtual support groups are proving highly effective.
“Community awareness campaigns and healthcare-driven interventions play a vital role in supporting individuals on their quitting journey.”

Set a quit day: Ideally within next 2 weeks

Identify triggers: Stress, social settings, certain routines
Behavioural support: Counselling, apps, or support groups

Medications: Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) or prescription drugs
Support network: Family and peer encouragement is key

Healthy substitutes: Exercise, hydration or chewing gum

Prepare for relapses: Accept slip-ups and restart
Celebrate milestones: Track and reward smoke-free days