THE INFLUENCE OF RELIGIOUS PRACTICES OBSERVED DURING RAMADAN ON MOTIVATION TO QUIT SMOKING

Like many other countries, Morocco faces a significant public health challenge related to tobacco use, which affects approximately 18% of the adult population, according to the World Health Organization [1]. Smoking is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease,chronic respiratory disease, and cancer, which are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the country [2].Numerous studies highlight the impact of Ramadan, a period of fasting observed by Muslims from sunrise to sunset, on health-related behaviors. In a study conducted in Egypt, 54.6% of participants attempted to quit smoking or vaping during Ramadan, suggesting that smokers may use this period as an opportunity to quit [3]. Although these efforts are promising, they are often temporary, with smokers resuming their habits once Ramadan is over [4].