In a powerful address at the 7th National Tobacco Control Conference held at AIIMS Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak delivered a stark message, labeling tobacco consumption as a "curse for humanity." He emphasized that the foundation of a healthy society must be built by fostering a tobacco-free generation, underscoring the urgent need for collective action against this pervasive health threat.
Alarming Statistics on Tobacco-Related Deaths in India
Pathak highlighted grim statistics, revealing that nearly 13 lakh deaths occur every year in India due to diseases linked to tobacco use. The conference, organized by the Department of Community Medicine at AIIMS Rae Bareli, served as a platform to discuss these critical issues. Pathak described tobacco as acting like poison in the human body, stressing that quitting the habit is the only viable path forward for individuals and communities alike.
Major Health Risks Associated with Tobacco
He pointed out that tobacco is a major risk factor for several severe health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and stroke. These ailments not only devastate lives but also place a significant burden on the healthcare system, making tobacco control a priority for public health initiatives.
Tobacco Control as a Social and National Policy
Pathak advocated for treating tobacco control as a comprehensive social policy rather than merely a health program. He outlined four key pillars essential for effective tobacco control: regulation, education, taxation, and public awareness. According to him, this approach transforms tobacco control into a national human capital protection policy, safeguarding the well-being and productivity of the population.
Disturbing Consumption Patterns in India
Citing data from the National Family Health Survey, Pathak shared alarming figures: nearly four out of every 10 men and one out of every 10 women in India consume tobacco in some form. He remarked, "These alarming figures show how deeply tobacco continues to affect a large section of our population," calling for intensified efforts to curb this widespread habit.
Uttar Pradesh's Initiatives to Combat Tobacco Use
In response to these challenges, Pathak announced that Uttar Pradesh is actively working to strengthen tobacco control and cessation counselling services. These efforts are being implemented at primary health centres, urban health institutions, and community levels, aiming to provide accessible support for those seeking to quit tobacco and prevent new addictions.
Union Health Minister's Virtual Address and Recognitions
Union Health Minister JP Nadda also addressed the conference virtually, reinforcing the national commitment to tobacco control. The event included felicitations for students who made outstanding contributions in the field of tobacco control, as well as the release of publications such as Tobacco Free Times, highlighting ongoing educational and advocacy work.
Overall, the conference underscored the critical need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle tobacco consumption, with Pathak's remarks serving as a rallying cry for building a healthier, tobacco-free future in India.
