This years theme as spelt out by the WHO is Tobacco Health Warnings. In a move earlier publicised,the Health ministry has also issued notifications to the effect of all tobacco products being required to have pictoral warnings on all packaging over and above the existing written warnings.
This year at Canstop we have made the following attemps to mark and observe World No Tobacco Day:
Oral Screening Camps
Can-Stop with the support of Sundaram Medical Foundation and in co-ordination with Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation will conduct Oral cancer Screening camps on 23 and 30th of May and 6th of June at Various Bus terminals in Chennai,specifically targeting bus conuctors and drivers. The team will comprise dentists, social workers and volunteers.
All those attending the camp will be asked a rigorous tobacco related history and will be guided accordingly. Any dental problems identified at the time will be treated to the extent possible. Any patients requiring biopsy or follow up treatment will be counselled on how to go about doing so. Emphasis will be placed on creating a deeper understanding of the links between cancer and tobacco related addictions.
This will also be achieved by the display of posters, banners and the distribution of pamphlets and brochures to the general public during the conduct of the camp.
City Wide Sticker and Bus Display Campaign
Stickers espousing anti-tobacco slogans will be distributed to motorists, buses, and autos around the city. On 31st May (World No Tobacco day WNTD). Information on Tobacco cessation counseling is will be provided and can be availed of free of cost at Can-Stop, Sundaram Medical Foundation Hospital.
Information about the ill effects of tobacco and right of clean air will be put on few city buses for a period of one month. Buses travel extensively throughout the city and provide great visibility to the message. In previous years we’ve received many calls from people with regards to tobacco cessation after seeing our bus back posters.
Short Film on Smoking – Sharad Haksar
Can Stop will also be displaying a short film produced by internationally renowned and award winning ad film maker, Sharad Haksar. This 45 second clip will be screened in the prominent movie theatre complex, Sathyam Cinemas. The display of the short film in theatres will provide the anti tobacco message immense reach.
In Ergo
In the NXG
And todays lead article in The Hindu Magazine.
