The Smoking Cessation Clinic at the University of Al-Maarif (UOA) is an integral community health initiative operated within the College of Dentistry, reflecting the university’s commitment to supporting public health promotion and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). The clinic represents one of the pioneering models in dental education in the region, integrating preventive healthcare awareness with specialized clinical guidance.
The clinic serves individuals who wish to reduce or completely quit smoking by providing personalized counseling, behavioral support, and medical guidance tailored to each participant’s needs. Support is delivered by qualified clinicians and trained dental specialists who are equipped to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. The clinic’s approach emphasizes understanding triggers, managing withdrawal symptoms, and sustaining long-term behavioral change.
In addition to direct counseling, the clinic offers:
- Baseline health assessments, including oral health evaluations, carbon monoxide level screening, and smoking history tracking.
- Individual and group counseling sessions, focusing on motivation, relapse prevention strategies, and lifestyle adjustment.
- Scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor progress, reinforce behavioral change, and provide continuous encouragement.
The clinic also conducts awareness campaigns across the campus and in local community settings, educating students and residents on the risks of smoking, effects on oral and systemic health, and benefits of cessation. These outreach efforts are delivered through workshops, informational materials, and interactive sessions led by faculty and students of the College of Dentistry.
By integrating clinical practice, education, and public outreach, the Smoking Cessation Clinic at the University of Al-Maarif plays an active role in:
- Promoting healthier lifestyles within the university community
- Reducing smoking-related health risks
- Strengthening preventive healthcare awareness
- Supporting national efforts to reduce tobacco use among youth
This initiative aligns directly with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and reinforces the university’s mission to provide impactful, community-oriented healthcare services that contribute to a healthier society.
