Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research (SRIOR), Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, observed World No Tobacco Day with a special awareness programme aimed at educating the public on the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and the importance of cancer prevention. The event was graced by N.Kannan,IPS, Commissioner of Police, Coimbatore City, as the Chief Guest.

The programme was presided over by Dr. Sundar Ramakrishnan, Managing Trustee, SNR Sons Charitable Trust, and Dr. P. Guhan, Director,Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research, delivered the welcome address.

Among those present were C.V.Ramkumar, Chief Executive Officer,SNR Sons Charitable Trust; D.Mahesh Kumar, Chief Administrative Officer; Dr.S. Rajagopal, Medical Director; Dr.S.Alagappan, Medical Superintendent; and doctors of the hospital.

During the programme,N.Kannan,IPS, launched the innovative “Cancer Awareness Spin Wheel” QR Code, a digital awareness platform developed to educate the public, particularly youngsters, about the dangers of tobacco use. Appreciating the initiative, he emphasized the need for continuous public awareness programmes to reduce tobacco consumption and prevent tobacco-related diseases.

Addressing the gathering, Dr.Sundar Ramakrishnan stated that Sri Ramakrishna Hospital remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare through meaningful community outreach programmes. He noted that creating awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco is essential in reducing the burden of cancer and improving public health outcomes.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr.P. Guhan highlighted that Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research has been conducting cancer awareness initiatives for more than 23 years through various innovative platforms, including awareness videos, digital resources, websites, and community campaigns. He explained that the newly introduced game-based “Spin Wheel” QR Code offers an engaging and interactive way to educate people about the health risks associated with tobacco use. The platform provides information on the immediate and long-term consequences of tobacco consumption and promotes healthier lifestyle choices through daily awareness messages in Tamil and English.

Dr.Guhan further emphasized that tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of oral cancer, throat cancer, lung cancer, and several other life-threatening diseases.

He urged the public to avoid all forms of tobacco, including smoking products, pan masala, and gutka, and encouraged individuals to seek early medical consultation if they experience warning signs such as persistent mouth ulcers, white patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes. He also stressed that quitting tobacco significantly reduces the risk of cancer and other serious illnesses.

As part of the World No Tobacco Day observance, Sri Ramakrishna Hospital is offering oral cancer screening and counselling services to support early detection and tobacco cessation.

The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Karthikesh, Surgical Oncologist, Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research.