Udupi: In observance of World No Tobacco Day, the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal, organised a pledge ceremony and an awareness session on Saturday, reaffirming its commitment to tobacco control and public health education.
This year’s theme — “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products” — was at the heart of the event. It highlighted how the tobacco industry misleadingly markets its products, particularly to the youth, under the guise of being trendy or safer alternatives.
Faculty, students, and staff from the respiratory medicine, psychiatry, and ENT departments united in pledging to refrain from tobacco use and to advocate against its health dangers. The pledge underscored the vital role that healthcare professionals play in combating tobacco-related illnesses.
Following the pledge, a public awareness session was held. Doctors from the respiratory department outlined the serious health risks of tobacco use, including chronic lung diseases, heart issues, and various forms of cancer. Emphasis was also placed on the impact of second-hand smoke and the manipulative marketing strategies of tobacco companies — such as flavouring, flashy packaging, and aggressive social media campaigns.
Postgraduate doctors Dr Deeksha Suresh and Dr Shobhitha Krishnan delivered key messages on prevention and cessation. Dr Manu Mohan K, Head of the Department, stressed the need for sustained education, strong regulations, and accessible support systems to combat the tobacco epidemic.
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