MOHALI: 'World No Tobacco Day’ was commemorated by University School of Allied Health Sciences, in collaboration with Dental College and Hospital, Rayat Bahra University, The theme of World No Tobacco Day 2024 is "Protecting children from tobacco industry interference" to protect future generations and ensure that tobacco use continues to decline. This year, attention is directed towards the alarming trend of the tobacco industry's targeted marketing towards youth.
During the event, Guest of honor Dr Amit Aggarwal, Associate Professor, AIMS, Mohali, delivered an enlightening expert talk on `Ill effects of Tobacco and related products.
Dr Pankaj Kaul, Dean, University School of Allied Health Sciences, spoke on `Ugly Effects of Smoking and Ways to Quit’. The talk was followed by lectures from the Faculty of the University School of Allied Health Sciences. Pervinder, Assistant Professor, Clinical Biochemistry, spoke on “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference" while Inderjeet, Assistant Professor, Medical Microbiology, spoke on “Mechanism of Action of Tobacco and its Devastating Outcome”.
A rally was taken out by the students and staff of both colleges with placards of anti- tobacco slogans, during the event.
Dr Akshey Sharma, Principal, Dental College and Hospital, RBU, appreciated the efforts taken by the staff and students of Rayat Bahra, Dental College & Hospital and University School of Allied Health Sciences, RBU, to spread awareness about the ill effects of tobacco chewing and smoking which leads to morbidity and ultimately mortality of human population.
The winners were presented certificates. The event ended with vote of thanks by Dr Deepti Bhatnagar, HoD, OMR Rayat Bahra Dental College & Hospital. Dr Lalit Kumar Gupta, Dean, USP&R and Dr Neena Mehta, Dean Academic Affairs, RBDC&H were also present. The program was co-ordinated by Dr Ankur, Assistant Professor, RBDC&H, Dr Arindam, Jasmina and Azad, Assistant Professors, USAHS, Rayat Bahra University.
Poster Making competition was organised for BDS students and interns to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use. Winners were awarded with the appreciation certificates.
Chancellor Gurvinder Singh Bahra and Vice-Chancellor Dr Parvinder Singh appreciated the initiative of Rayat Bahra, Dental College & Hospital and University School of Allied Health Sciences in organizing the event..
Students of dental college performed a skit to illustrate the dangers of tobacco use through an engaging and relatable performance.