Training workshop throws light on ill-effects of tobacco

Tribune News Service
Jalandhar, January 18

Under a tobacco control programme, a workshop for multipurpose health workers (MPHWs) and their supervisors was held at the training centre of Shaheed Babu Labh Singh Nagar Nursing College here on Friday.

In the first batch, staff from Adamapur, Mehatpur, Bilga, Jamsher Khas and Jandiala blocks were imparted the training.

In the second batch, the training was given to staff from Kartarpur, Kala Bakra, Bara Pind and Shahkot blocks.

Civil Surgeon Dr Rajesh Bagga said efforts were being made to get the region rid of drugs.

He said efforts were being made to form committees at the village-level to apprise the people of the adverse affects of drugs.

He added that activities to create awareness on the issue should also be held at villages from time to time.

Dr Kamal Kishore, nodal officer, District Tobacco Control Cell, said tobacco consumption causes cancer of the mouth, lungs and food pipe.

He said of the total cancer patients, 56.4 per cent were men and 48.9 per cent women.

Dr TP Singh, Assistant Health Officer, said as per Section 7 of the Tobacco Products Act, a ban had been imposed on the open sale of cigarettes.

He said at public places, tobacco consumption was liable to a fine of Rs200.

The Assistant Health Officer said boards highlighting a warning against tobacco consumption should be installed at all public places.

Dr Tarsem Singh, a health official, said children were also falling prey to the menace of tobacco. Dr Gaurva Singh, MD Training, said tobacco was the root cause of many addictions.