Chile has introduced a major public health initiative aimed at reducing tobacco dependence by incorporating smoking cessation treatment into its national health guarantee programme. Since 1 December 2025, tobacco addiction has been officially included as the 90th condition covered by the country’s Explicit Health Guarantees Plan (GES), ensuring access to combined psychological and pharmacological support for individuals aged 25 and over.
Health authorities in Chile describe the measure as a significant step towards tackling one of the leading preventable causes of chronic disease. The programme aims to provide structured treatment pathways designed to improve long-term abstinence rates and reduce the burden of tobacco-related illnesses across the population.
Evidence-Based Combination Therapy
Medical professionals in Chile emphasise that the most effective approach to treating tobacco addiction involves a dual strategy combining medication with behavioural therapy. According to healthcare specialists, pharmacological treatments help manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, while psychological counselling addresses behavioural triggers and supports relapse prevention.
Scientific evidence supports this integrated approach. Research published by organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and studies in journals including The Lancet demonstrate that combining counselling with pharmacological interventions significantly increases the likelihood of successful smoking cessation compared with isolated treatment methods. This aligns with the model adopted in Chile under the updated GES programme.
Healthcare experts in Chile highlight that psychological support plays a critical role in maintaining long-term abstinence, particularly for individuals with a high level of nicotine dependence. The inclusion of both therapeutic components aims to address the complex physiological and psychological aspects of addiction.
Tobacco Use Patterns and Public Demand for Support
Recent population surveys conducted in Chile illustrate a strong demand for structured smoking cessation services. National health data indicate that a significant proportion of smokers express a desire to quit, demonstrating the relevance of expanding accessible treatment options. Public health researchers emphasise that nicotine addiction is often characterised by repeated attempts to stop smoking, with many individuals requiring professional support to achieve lasting success.
Healthcare professionals in Chile note that individuals with higher levels of dependence tend to benefit most from comprehensive treatment programmes. Indicators of strong nicotine dependence may include frequent daily cigarette consumption and early smoking shortly after waking, both of which are associated with increased difficulty in quitting without medical assistance.
Health Risks Linked to Tobacco Consumption
Public health authorities in Chile continue to warn about the wide range of diseases associated with smoking. Extensive global research confirms that tobacco use is linked to respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, neurological complications, digestive system illnesses and multiple forms of cancer. Studies conducted by international health agencies consistently identify smoking as one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for premature mortality.
Medical specialists in Chile emphasise that cessation not only reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases but also improves outcomes for individuals already diagnosed with smoking-related conditions. Evidence from epidemiological studies demonstrates that quitting tobacco use can rapidly improve cardiovascular and respiratory health and reduce long-term cancer risk.
Implementation Challenges in Primary Care
Despite the strong scientific foundation supporting the new policy in Chile, healthcare professionals acknowledge potential challenges during implementation. One of the primary concerns relates to ensuring sufficient psychological support services within primary healthcare settings. Limited availability of mental health professionals has been identified as a structural difficulty in several healthcare systems worldwide.
However, authorities in Chile expect that the inclusion of smoking cessation within the GES framework will facilitate increased resource allocation. Health policy experts suggest that expanding multidisciplinary support services is essential for achieving the programme’s public health objectives and improving patient outcomes.
Strengthening Preventive Healthcare in Chile
The integration of tobacco cessation services into national healthcare coverage reflects a broader commitment by Chile to prioritise preventive medicine. International public health research highlights that investing in prevention strategies can significantly reduce healthcare costs and disease burden over time.
Experts in Chile underline that comprehensive cessation support may also contribute to reducing health inequalities, as structured programmes can provide equitable access to treatment regardless of socioeconomic status. Public health studies have repeatedly shown that accessible cessation services play a crucial role in lowering smoking prevalence at a national level.
By incorporating combined therapeutic strategies into its healthcare system, Chile is reinforcing global recommendations that emphasise multidisciplinary approaches to addiction treatment. The initiative represents a critical advancement in reducing tobacco-related harm and promoting long-term population health.