On May 23, 2025, Sree Balaji Dental and College organized an impactful Anti-Tobacco Awareness Program at City Center Mall, aimed at educating the general public about the harmful effects of tobacco use and promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle. The initiative was part of the college's week-long awareness campaign leading up to World No Tobacco Day, and the mall setting was chosen to ensure maximum outreach and engagement with diverse age groups and communities.

The event took place in the central atrium of the mall, which witnesses high footfall every day, making it an ideal location for spreading health awareness in an informal yet effective manner. The program was designed to be interactive, visually engaging, and informative, with a strong focus on encouraging behavior change through education and motivation. A team of dental faculty, postgraduate students, and interns participated enthusiastically, setting up well-organized booths and educational stalls that attracted hundreds of visitors throughout the day.

One of the most appreciated aspects of the program was the free oral health screening offered to visitors. A mobile dental unit stationed just outside the mall allowed for on-the-spot dental check-ups, where trained dentists screened over 500 individuals for signs of oral cancer, leukoplakia, submucous fibrosis, and other precancerous conditions linked to tobacco use. Individuals showing early symptoms were given personalized advice, referrals for further evaluation, and guidance on quitting tobacco. These sessions were held in private corners of the mall space to ensure confidentiality and comfort. Many individuals, especially middle-aged men and young adults, came forward to talk about their struggles with addiction and were offered support in the form of cessation techniques, nicotine replacement therapy information, and contact details for the tobacco cessation clinic at the dental college. The team also followed up with these individuals to offer further support after the event.

The response from the general public was overwhelmingly positive, with many individuals appreciating the approachability of the dental team and the visual, interactive nature of the awareness program. People from all age groups—including children, teenagers, adults, and senior citizens—engaged with the program, asked questions, and took home educational material. Anti-Tobacco Awareness Program at the mall successfully combined education, community engagement, clinical service, and emotional outreach to deliver a powerful message against tobacco use.

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