May 31, 2016
The Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research (SRIOR) today launched a helpline to assist people who want to quit tobacco.
Speaking on the occasion, SRIOR director Dr. Guhan said the helpline, that would function as a call centre, would be operated through the centralised support centre in Mumbai. This is the first time such a helpline has been launched in the country, he said.
An experienced counselor would talk to the person and guide him to give up tobacco after assessing the history and other issues.
Launching the helpline, Bharathiar University vice-chancellor, P. Ganapathy said the university would take all efforts to create awareness among students on the need to quit smoking and the ills of tobacco. “A note would be sent to all departments and all colleges coming under the university as a first step,” he said.
The number 0422-61131441 can be reached on six days a week (Monday to Saturday) between 9.30 am and 6.30 p.m. The services are available in both English and Tamil.