14.08.2025 18:55
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu stated that they will make Artvin a "smoke-free city." He emphasized that they have initiated a smoking ban in the ministry and public institutions, and that they are providing support for the quitting process through the ALO 171 hotline and medication assistance. Memişoğlu also announced that they will not compromise on any tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and puffs.
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu met with the General President of the Federation Sinan Burhan and members of the press at the "Anatolian Conversations" program organized by the Turkish Press Federation, where he made statements regarding the health agenda. Highlighting the fight against tobacco, Memişoğlu announced that they have set a goal for a smoke-free life both within the Ministry and in certain cities.
ARTVIN WILL BE A SMOKE-FREE CITY
Emphasizing that tobacco use is particularly high among the male population in Turkey, Memişoğlu stated, "45% of men in Turkey smoke. I have now started this in the Ministry as well. I said in Artvin; it will be a smoke-free city, there will be a smoke-free Ministry," he said.
ALO 171 AND MEDICATION SUPPORT
Stating that they are mobilizing all resources for citizens who want to quit smoking, Memişoğlu said, "We are trying to direct them to the ALO 171 quitline. We provide medications for free. Additionally, we will go out into the field to explain to people why they should quit smoking, how they can quit, and how we can support them during this process," he expressed.
ZERO TOLERANCE
Memişoğlu stated that they have a clear stance not only against cigarettes but also against alternative tobacco products such as electronic cigarettes and puffs: "Tobacco is not just cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes, puffs, all are banned. We will not compromise on this issue. We are now also going to public institutions. I think you should start the smoke-free media campaign."