Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has stated that nearly 6,000 youth die from tobacco-related diseases annually.

He has consequently cautioned young people against the growing use of shisha and electronic cigarettes.

He warned that despite their attractive flavours and trendy appearance, they pose serious health risks.

6,700 Ghanaians die each year from tobacco use

Speaking at an event to mark World No Tobacco Day in Accra on June 2, 2026, the Director of Technical Coordination at the Ministry of Health, Dr Hafez Adam Taher, who represented the minister said tobacco and nicotine products continue to threaten the health of many Ghanaians, particularly the youth.

"It is estimated that about 13.6 per cent of youth smoke shisha and about 2.2 per cent smoke e-cigarettes. Nearly 450,000 adults in Ghana smoke regularly, with men more likely to smoke than women," he said.

Dr Hafez Adam Taher, stated that tobacco-related diseases claim about 6,000 lives annually and cost Ghana an estimated $600 million each year.

He warned that tobacco companies are increasingly marketing products such as shisha and e-cigarettes as fashionable lifestyle choices to attract young consumers.

Akandoh, however, commended Ghana's progress in tobacco control, revealing that adult smoking rates have declined from 3 per cent in 2017 to about 2.2 per cent currently.

The Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, Gayheart Edem Mensah, urged stakeholders to renew efforts to protect future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco use.

World Health Organisation Representative in Ghana, Dr Fiona Braka, also called for stronger action to reduce tobacco consumption and safeguard public health.

NA/VPO