RCHRC conducts action and awareness programmes on WNTD

RCHRC observed World No Tobacco Day with a series of impactful initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the devastating effects of tobacco consumption.

On World No Tobacco Day (WNTD),  Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (RCHRC) conducted an impactful awareness session on the detrimental effects of tobacco, focusing particularly on oral cancer. Dr Rajanigandha Tudu, Medical Oncologist, RCHRC, led the session, which saw the participation of over 45 attendees.

Dr Tudu detailed the severe health consequences associated with tobacco use, emphasising its role in causing at least 12 types of cancer. She highlighted that tobacco is the leading preventable cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. Her presentation underscored the increased risks and poorer outcomes of cancer in smokers, urging the public to quit smoking and advising non-smokers against starting the habit. The staff showcased an inspirational video message made by the Tata Trusts on WNTD and recited a self-written poem to encourage people to quit smoking.

In conjunction with the awareness session, RCHRC hosted a cancer screening camp where over 35 individuals were able to avail of the screening services. The attendees expressed their appreciation for the awareness programme and the screening camp, acknowledging the growing necessity of such initiatives given the rise in tobacco use.

Dr (Col) Madan Mohan Pandey, Medical Director at RCHRC, participated in a special programme collaboratively organised by the Ranchi Cancer Care Foundation (RCCF), AIIMS Deoghar, the State NTCP cell, and Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). This educational event, attended by over 200 medical students, was followed by a cycle rally and a "nukad natak" (street play) aimed at promoting tobacco control and raising awareness about its dangers. Eminent personalities like Dr Jaiprakash MB, Principal, Dental Institute, RIMS, Dr Vidyapati, Dean, Academics, RIMS, Dr Prof Rajkumar, Director and CEO, RIMS, Dr C K Shahi, Director in chief, Health Services, Government of Jharkhand, Dr Ashwini and Dr Lalmanjhi from NCD cell were present during this event.

The RCHRC outreach team also organised a special screening camp at an old age home. The residents were screen for various health parameters, including blood sugar, blood pressure, and cancers such as oral, breast, and cervical cancer.

The World No Tobacco Day activities conducted by RCHRC demonstrated a comprehensive approach to tackling tobacco use. Through educational sessions, screening camps, and collaborative efforts with other health organisations, RCHRC highlighted the critical importance of tobacco cessation and preventive healthcare. The engagement of the community and medical students in these events marks a significant step forward in reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks.