Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 16 March 2025
A training-cum-orientation session on the ‘Prevention and Control of Tobacco Use’ was conducted at the Conference Hall of CHC Bambooflat. The session was organised by the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in coordination with the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) under the State Health Society, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Abdul Salam, Health Educator at CHC Bambooflat. The programme featured three technical sessions, each addressing crucial aspects of tobacco control and its impact on health.
Dr. Satayjit Halder, State Nodal Officer (NTCP), delivered a session on ‘Tobacco Control – An Overview,’ where he emphasised the significance of tobacco control and the pivotal role of healthcare professionals in curbing tobacco use.
Dr. Sanjeev Jaichand, Nodal Officer (NOHP), spoke on ‘Tobacco and Oral Health,’ highlighting the adverse effects of tobacco on oral health. Additionally, he conducted a special session on ‘World Oral Health Day,’ observed annually on March 20, underscoring the importance of oral hygiene.
Dr. Rajiv Ghosh, District Public Health Officer, South Andaman, elaborated on ‘Tobacco Control Law,’ stressing the need for stringent enforcement of tobacco control regulations to mitigate its usage.
The session was attended by a wide range of healthcare professionals, including Medical Officers, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Staff Nurses, Public Health Nurses (PHNs), Health Educators (HEs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), and Anganwadi Workers. The training aimed to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide tobacco cessation services and support tobacco control initiatives across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The National Tobacco Control Programme, under the State Health Society, remains committed to organizing such training sessions and awareness campaigns to combat tobacco use and promote a healthier community in the region. (Story Based on PR)