Saran schools join tobacco awareness drive

Chhapra: The health department has launched an awareness campaign in schools in various blocks to educate students and teachers about the harmful effects of tobacco use. The initiative will culminate on May 31, observed as 'World No Tobacco Day'.
As part of the campaign, expert speakers have been informing students and teachers about the range of diseases and psychological issues linked to tobacco consumption. They have also outlined practical methods to help individuals avoid or quit the habit.
At one such programme held at the health and wellness centre in Shiltalpur Dih Basti Jalal under Dighwara block, speakers stressed the importance of referring chronic users to the District Tobacco Control Committee (DTCC) for proper counselling and treatment.
Expressing concern over the rising number of tobacco users, Saran civil surgeon Dr Sagar Dulal Sinha said, "This can be controlled only through proper awareness, counselling and self-commitment."
Non-communicable disease officer Dr Bhupendra Kumar, speaking at the Basti Jalal session, warned of the serious health risks associated with tobacco use. "There is a growing threat of oral, lung and abdominal cancers due to tobacco," he said.

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