Significant changes are unfolding in tobacco and nicotine control across Central Asia.
Kazakhstan has had a ban on the sale of e-cigarettes in place for over a year. However, instead of reducing consumption, the ban has pushed the market underground. Illegal sales through Telegram channels are flourishing, and many smokers — including teenagers — have returned to traditional cigarettes.
Kyrgyzstan is now following suit: a similar ban on e-cigarettes will take effect in July. Yet another risky product is already popular there — naswar. This homemade mixture, originating in Afghanistan, includes tobacco, slaked lime, oil, ash, and even chicken or camel droppings. Due to its low cost, naswar is often used as a cigarette substitute, especially among youth.
There are numerous myths about tobacco and nicotine products in the region — even among healthcare professionals. This creates barriers to smoking cessation. Smokers who don’t believe they can fully quit often remain trapped in daily tobacco use.
Our team of experts recently completed a series of trainings in Central Asian countries focused on supporting smokers toward complete cessation.
