"Smokers Are not Selfish": School children actively engage in anti-smoking campaign

Published On: February 18, 2024 08:49 AM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Feb 18: In a commendable endeavor to tackle smoking, students from schools across Nepal are enthusiastically participating in anti-smoking and tobacco awareness activities. Initiated by the renowned cardiologist Dr. Om Murti Anil, these initiatives not only offer enjoyment but also impart valuable knowledge to them about the harmful effects of tobacco on health.

Approximately 19,000 students from various schools actively engaged in diverse awareness activities launched by the Dr. Om Foundation. This innovative approach of involving school-going students in anti-smoking campaigns has yielded promising results, marking a significant awareness drive in the battle against tobacco use.

The primary objective of engaging school children was to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of tobacco products, with the aim of preventing them from adopting such habits in the future. Additionally, the goal was to empower them to become advocates for the anti-smoking campaign, influencing their family members and friends to steer clear of harmful tobacco consumption habits, according to Dr Anil, who established the Foundation to work for the social cause.

Dr. Anil, a highly respected figure within Nepal's medical fraternity, has played a pivotal role in leading this comprehensive anti-smoking initiative. Through his innovative "Smokers are not selfish" health campaign, Dr. Anil has effectively utilized his extensive social media platform to challenge prevailing perceptions surrounding smoking.

Aligning his campaign with culturally significant events such as Basant Panchami and Valentine's Day, Dr. Anil's message resonated deeply with individuals across the nation. By framing smoking cessation as a profound act of devotion to one's family, he successfully motivated over 1700 predominantly young participants, including a significant number residing abroad, to pledge to quit smoking—a remarkable testament to the campaign's impact in reshaping public attitudes towards tobacco use.

A standout feature of the campaign took place during the Valentine's Day gathering held at the National Cardiac Centre in Basundhara, Kathmandu. Attendees actively participated in open discussions, received comprehensive health screenings, and had access to educational materials focused on smoking cessation. This event played a pivotal role as a platform for individuals to receive personalized assistance in their quest for a smoke-free lifestyle.

Furthermore, the National Cardiac Centre offered free health screening tests, including ECG, echocardiography, blood sugar tests, lipid profile analysis, and general health evaluations. This valuable support provided by the center significantly bolstered the effectiveness of the campaign, further emphasizing their commitment to promoting heart health and assisting individuals in their journey towards better overall well-being.

In addition to the anti-smoking campaign, the Dr. Om Foundation organized a nationwide quiz contest, highlighting the collaborative efforts between healthcare institutions, social organizations, and individuals in combating smoking. Teams from across Nepal participated in the event, showcasing their knowledge of smoking-related health hazards and reinforcing the importance of educational initiatives in promoting health awareness.

As a gesture of appreciation for successful smoking cessation, the Dr. Om Foundation distributed over 200 copies of a book emphasizing the significance of family dynamics and sacrifices made for loved ones' well-being. This initiative represents a significant stride in promoting a culture of health consciousness among Nepali communities, showcasing the potential of comprehensive approaches in addressing public health challenges.

Dr. Anil's commitment goes beyond mere rhetoric; he has expressed his intention to conduct thorough research into the motivations behind smoking cessation. “By understanding the factors that drive individuals to overcome nicotine addiction, we aim to provide comprehensive support and guidance to ensure long-term success in smoking cessation efforts,”says Dr Anil.