Kolkata, 31 May, 2025
Smoking is Injurious to Health — this warning is no stranger to us. Whether it’s printed on cigarette packs or flashed during smoking scenes in films, it’s everywhere. Yet, we often choose to ignore it. Despite knowing the deadly consequences, many continue to smoke — much like knowingly drinking poison. These statutory warnings barely register in our consciousness, and in doing so, we invite harm not just to ourselves, but also to those around us.
The danger lies not just in personal damage passive smoking is equally harmful, putting loved ones at risk too. Still, many find it difficult to quit. The addictive nature of tobacco is extremely destructive. Some individuals even go through two to three packs of cigarettes a day.
It’s worth reiterating: tobacco products like cigarettes and bidis push you towards a path of destruction. Regular smoking significantly increases the risk of chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD, bronchitis, and emphysema. Most alarmingly, excessive smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer and head-and-neck cancers. That’s why quitting smoking entirely is not just advisable — it’s essential.
On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day (May 31), B.P. Poddar Hospital in South Kolkata organized a special awareness initiative. A discussion session highlighted the significance of the day and the pressing need to combat tobacco addiction.
Speaking on the occasion, Supriyo Chakraborty, Group Advisor of the hospital, remarked, “We are all aware that smoking is harmful. Yet, we continue to light up cigarettes and bidis, never pausing to consider the dangers we bring not only upon ourselves but our entire families. However, with mental strength and awareness, quitting smoking is entirely possible. The power lies in our own hands.”
He stressed the importance of involving the youth in this mission and encouraged those who struggle to quit completely to at least reduce consumption gradually. “Take steps to cut back and slowly distance yourself from tobacco. And don’t forget regular health check-ups,” he added.
B.P. Poddar Hospital’s Pulmonology Clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to detect and manage tobacco-related health issues at early stages, making treatment more effective. Early detection is key — delaying diagnosis can complicate treatment. Still, prevention is always better than cure. The wise choice is to eliminate tobacco from your life altogether.
Caption: ‘No Tobacco Day’ observed at B.P. Poddar Hospital with a series of anti-tobacco awareness programs highlighting the importance of a tobacco-free life.
