The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Qatar has been awarded the World Health Organization Award for World No Tobacco Day (WNTD Award) in recognition of its tireless efforts in cooperation with the relevant authorities to make sure the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is a smoke-free tournament. In the event accompanying the 133rd World Health Assembly (WHA) meetings held in Geneva, Switzerland, Minister of Public Health HE Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari and senior officials celebrated the award.
MOPH Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases Department Dr. Kholoud Ateeq Al Mutawa received the award from WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari. Dr. Al Mutawa noted that the award was a result of the ministry and various concerned authorities’ dedication to fighting tobacco, striving towards creating a smoke-free environment in the fan areas. The MoPH has also imposed a total ban on smoking during the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021, aiming to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for everyone.
The Qatar Ministry of Public Health is a governmental health body responsible for implementing health policy and providing health care within the State of Qatar. It works in cooperation with other organizations such as the Primary Health Care Corporation to promote a healthier lifestyle through initiatives such as regular health check-ups, disease prevention campaigns, and community awareness activities for youth and adults. Led by HE Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Public Health, the MoPH oversees the national health care system and provides vital medical services, including mental health care, to residents of Qatar.
Dr. Kholoud Ateeq Al Mutawa is the Head of Non-Communicable Diseases Department at the Qatar Ministry of Public Health. She leads the department’s efforts in preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, through the implementation of education campaigns and health initiatives. Dr. Al Mutawa is a highly respected specialist, and this award is a testament to her impressive leadership in promoting a smoke-free environment for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
