DH launches training programme on tobacco control for professionals in WHO Western Pacific Region to promote regional tobacco control exchange
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In April 2012, the DH was designated by the WHO to establish the Collaborating Centre for Smoking Cessation and Treatment of Tobacco Dependence in Hong Kong, China, to serve as a regional hub that supports smoking cessation training for other member states/regions within the Western Pacific Region. The Training Programme is structured according to the WHO's tobacco control measures, covering legislation, law enforcement, publicity and advocacy, as well as the development and evaluation of smoking cessation services, etc. It equips participants with the knowledge necessary to control the tobacco epidemic through comprehensive strategies and to plan tobacco control measures in a more forward-looking manner.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Head of TACO, Dr Manny Lam, said, "This year, 40 participants from the Chinese Mainland, the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), Malaysia, Vietnam and Tonga participated in the online programme. Since the establishment of the Collaborating Centre for Smoking Cessation and Treatment of Tobacco Dependence in the Hong Kong SAR, over 300 tobacco control personnel from government agencies and non-governmental organisations in the Western Pacific Region have participated in the Training Programme organised by the DH. Their positive feedback has enabled us to continuously refine and enrich the programme."
The Technical Lead for Tobacco-Free Initiatives at the WHO's Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Ms Mina Kashiwabara, also attended today's opening ceremony and delivered remarks.
The DH has invited a number of overseas and local experts to share their valuable experience in tobacco control. TACO staff also briefed the participants on Hong Kong's regulation and enforcement of new smoking products, smoking cessation services and smoking cessation support for healthcare workers.
In addition to the Training Programme, TACO also provides comprehensive smoking cessation training courses for healthcare professionals in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area every year to enhance their capabilities in providing counselling and treatment for tobacco dependence. Furthermore, TACO also organises annual training courses on Chinese medicine acupuncture to help frontline Chinese medicine practitioners further improve their knowledge and skills in smoking cessation.
The Hong Kong SAR Government has introduced various tobacco control measures, including strengthening smoking cessation services. The DH will continue to actively promote smoking cessation services and provide continued support in cessation training and assistance. Members of the public can call 1833 183 or visit the smoking cessation thematic website for more information on quitting and the available support tools and services.
Ends/Monday, October 13, 2025
Issued at HKT 15:00
Issued at HKT 15:00
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