In a significant move to combat tobacco addiction, AIIMS Delhi is set to open a new Tobacco Cessation Clinic (TCC) today. This initiative is part of the comprehensive “Tobacco-Free AIIMS” program, aimed at reducing tobacco use and its associated health risks. The clinic, located in the New Rajkumari Amrit Kaur OPD building, will offer a range of services including pharmacotherapy, psychosocial interventions, and relapse prevention strategies. This effort underscores AIIMS Delhi’s commitment to public health and its proactive approach to addressing tobacco addiction.
Comprehensive Services for Tobacco Cessation
The new Tobacco Cessation Clinic at AIIMS Delhi is designed to provide comprehensive support to individuals struggling with tobacco addiction. The clinic will operate every Tuesday morning, offering services such as pharmacotherapy, which includes medications to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, the clinic will provide psychosocial interventions, including counseling and behavioral therapies, to address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Dr. Anant Mohan, Professor and Head of the Department of Pulmonary, Critical, and Sleep Medicine, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to tobacco cessation. He noted that many patients continue to use tobacco despite serious health diagnoses, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. The clinic aims to support these patients by offering tailored treatment plans that address both the physical and psychological components of addiction.
The establishment of the TCC is also aligned with the objectives of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). By providing a dedicated space for tobacco cessation, AIIMS Delhi hopes to create a supportive environment that encourages individuals to quit tobacco and improve their overall health.
Collaborative Efforts and Educational Initiatives
The Tobacco Cessation Clinic is a collaborative effort involving multiple departments within AIIMS Delhi, including the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) and the Department of Pulmonary, Critical, and Sleep Medicine. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of tobacco addiction.
Dr. D. Anju Dhawan, Chief of NDDTC, highlighted the clinic’s role in educating and sensitizing medical and nursing students about tobacco cessation. The clinic will serve as a training ground for future healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to support patients in quitting tobacco. This educational component is crucial for building a healthcare workforce that is well-prepared to address the challenges of tobacco addiction.
In addition to direct patient care, the clinic will also engage in public awareness campaigns to educate the community about the dangers of tobacco use. These campaigns will focus on the health risks associated with tobacco, the benefits of quitting, and the resources available for those seeking help. By raising awareness and providing support, AIIMS Delhi aims to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and its associated health burdens.
Addressing the Public Health Crisis
Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable death globally, responsible for over 8 million deaths annually. In India alone, more than 1.3 million lives are lost each year due to tobacco-related illnesses. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2 (GATS-2) reports that 28.6% of Indian adults aged 15 and above use tobacco in some form, highlighting the urgent need for effective tobacco cessation programs.
Dr. Prabhoo Dayal, Professor and Additional Medical Superintendent at NDDTC, stressed the importance of addressing this public health crisis. He noted that tobacco use is a major risk factor for a range of diseases, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. The new Tobacco Cessation Clinic at AIIMS Delhi is a critical step in tackling this issue, providing much-needed support to individuals seeking to quit tobacco.
The clinic’s opening marks a significant milestone in AIIMS Delhi’s ongoing efforts to promote public health and reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases. By offering comprehensive services and engaging in educational initiatives, the clinic aims to create a healthier community and support individuals in their journey to quit tobacco.
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