Abstract:

This study aims to compare stop smoking treatment policies in Turkiye with that of United Kingdom. Firstly, tobacco control strategies proposed by World Health Organization and their applications in both countries were examined, and then tobacco cessation treatment policies were compared. Tobacco cessation services consisting of prescription drug treatments, health education and supportive behavior therapy, and brief advice were reimbursed partially free of charge in United Kingdom. Cost of medications in tobacco cessation treatment in Türkiye was not reimbursed by Social Security Institution. However, medications for stop smoking, which were provided by Ministry of Health, were distributed free of charge to those who intended to quit, in case it was prescribed by an authorized physician. Access to tobacco cessation services is critical in achieving equity and eliminating disparities in tobacco control. Hence, greater efforts are needed to make tobacco control strategies more effective.

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