The Chamba Health Department on Saturday organised a district-level awareness camp at Government Senior Secondary School, Khajjiar, ahead of World No Tobacco Day to sensitise students to the dangers of tobacco and nicotine addiction.
The programme was held under the aegis of the chief medical officer and focused on this year’s World Health Organization (WHO) theme, “Unmask the Appeal—Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction.”
Addressing the gathering, District Programme Officer Dr Suhail said the theme aims to expose the deceptive marketing tactics used by tobacco and nicotine companies to attract young people and encourage addiction. He said attractive packaging, flavoured products and aggressive promotion through digital platforms were increasingly targeting adolescents and youth, making them vulnerable to tobacco use.
Dr Suhail highlighted that tobacco consumption remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide and is linked to several life-threatening diseases, including cancer, heart ailments, stroke and chronic respiratory disorders. He urged students to stay away from tobacco products and play an active role in spreading awareness among their families and communities about their harmful effects.
Principal Sandeep Kumar said creating health awareness among students was the need of the hour. He noted that educational institutions had an important role in guiding young people towards healthy lifestyles and helping them avoid addictions and substance abuse.
During the programme, officials from the Health Department provided detailed information on the health hazards associated with tobacco-use, nicotine addiction and various tobacco-control laws. Students also participated in awareness activities and delivered messages promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle.
Participants collectively pledged not to consume tobacco or nicotine products and to encourage others to refrain from using these. The gathering also resolved to contribute towards building a tobacco-free society.
The Health Department urged the public to quit tobacco consumption. Officials stressed that community participation was essential for creating a tobacco-free environment and protecting future generations from addiction.
