A training workshop on the health costs of tobacco was held on 5–7 July 2011 in preparation for the implementation of the tobacco health cost study in Egypt. The study will provide scientific evidence for decision-makers, stakeholders and the public on the economic burden on the national economy caused by tobacco use. The workshop objectives were to:

build capacity in the different methodologies for conducting health cost studies;

reach preliminary agreement on the most convenient methodology for the implementation of the study in Egypt;

select a core committee from participants for implementation of a limited scale study.