To End Smoking Harms in Rwanda, Educate Health Care Providers

Tobacco's cultural significance in Rwanda has decreased, but smoking rates remain at 10%, causing over 2,000 deaths yearly. Awareness and societal changes have led to a slight decline. More effort is needed to expand harm reduction options like nicotine vapes and educate healthcare providers. In a study of Rwandan medical students, 58% were aware of tobacco harm reduction, but knowledge on specific solutions was limited. Students showed willingness to learn about cessation strategies, highlighting the potential for progress in reducing smoking-related harms in Rwanda.