Accra: The Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Sunday urged pregnant women to stay away from tobacco and nicotine products, warning that their use during pregnancy poses serious health risks to both mothers and their unborn babies.
According to Ghana News Agency, the GHS emphasized that tobacco and nicotine use during pregnancy could negatively affect the growth and development of the fetus and increase the likelihood of complications such as premature birth and low birth weight, as well as other negative health outcomes. A statement issued by the Service to mark this year's World No Tobacco Day highlighted that pregnancy is a critical period requiring special care to protect the health and well-being of both mother and child.
The statement noted that smoking during pregnancy, as well as exposure to second-hand smoke, could increase the risk of complications for both mother and baby, including premature birth and low birth weight. The Service joined the global campaign commemorating World No Tobacco Day, under the theme: 'Unmasking the Appeal - Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.'
The GHS reiterated that tobacco and nicotine in all their forms are harmful to health and called on the public to reject the growing appeal of emerging nicotine products. It emphasized that products such as cigarettes, shisha, electronic cigarettes (vapes), nicotine pouches, and tobacco-free nicotine products all contain nicotine, which remains highly addictive and harmful.
The Service urged families, caregivers, and communities to support pregnant women by creating smoke-free environments and promoting healthy lifestyles. It also encouraged the public to make informed decisions about tobacco and nicotine use while supporting efforts to prevent addiction, particularly among young people and vulnerable groups.
The statement called for informed choices to protect health and encourage others to stay tobacco- and nicotine-free. The GHS reaffirmed its commitment to tobacco control and public health promotion, urging all Ghanaians to contribute to building healthier communities and securing a healthier future for the next generation.