Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar on Friday celebrated World No Tobacco Day; featuring a collaborative initiative between Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar, the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, and the Department of Psychiatry at Government Medical College Srinagar, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and promoting healthier, smoke-free lifestyles.
World No Tobacco Day, established by the World Health Organization (WHO), is observed annually on May 31 to highlight the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. This year’s theme, “Protect Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,” underscores the urgent need to combat the tobacco epidemic and save lives.
The event organized by the Department of Public Health Dentistry at Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar and led by Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, included participation from all faculty and students of the institute. Principal Government Dental College & Hospital Professor Dr. Ajaz Shah opened the workshop with a detailed lecture on tobacco’s effects on oral and general health, emphasizing the role of oral health professionals in raising awareness about the link between tobacco and oral cancer. The workshop was followed by a series of lectures from renowned faculty members of Government Medical College Srinagar.
Leading pulmonologists, including Professor Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah, and psychiatrists from Government Medical College Srinagar, such as Professor Dr. Yasir Rather, discussed the multifaceted impact of tobacco on physical and mental health and explored comprehensive approaches to cessation. Their speeches covered comprehensive management of smokers and smoking cessation methodologies.
In addition to the workshop, a robust campaign featuring educational materials, social media outreach, and community engagement activities was launched by the Department of Public Health Dentistry to spread the message about the harmful effects of tobacco and the benefits of quitting. The department runs a tobacco cessation clinic daily, routinely counseling tobacco users to quit.
Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah, Head of the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, provided insights into how smoking can cause lung disease by damaging airways and potentially leading to COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer.
Dr. Yasir Rather, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, added, “Nicotine addiction is not only a physical challenge but also a psychological one. Our collaborative efforts will address both aspects, offering comprehensive support to those looking to quit.”
On this occasion of World No Tobacco Day, Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar calls on all healthcare professionals and media representatives to join and support the global fight against tobacco. Together, we can make a difference and promote a healthier future for all.
Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar is a leading institution dedicated to advancing healthcare through education, research, and community service. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Government Dental College & Hospital Srinagar strives to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities.