On May 26, 2025, the Department of Public Health Dentistry of Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital conducted a well-organized and highly engaging Anti-Tobacco Awareness Program at Pallikaranai Eco Park, Chennai. The program was part of a series of public outreach activities held in anticipation of World No Tobacco Day and aimed at educating the general public on the harmful effects of tobacco consumption.

The serene and popular setting of Pallikaranai Eco Park, frequently visited by families, morning walkers, youth groups, and children, was strategically chosen to ensure that the message of tobacco awareness reached a broad and diverse audience in a natural and relaxed atmosphere.

The primary goal of the program was to create awareness about the devastating impact of tobacco on health—particularly oral health—and to promote quitting through education, motivation, and support. The event was conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, a time when the park is filled with regular visitors.

A team of dental faculty members and interns were present, all committed to delivering clear, evidence-based information about tobacco’s impact on the body. The setup included informative display boards, banners, posters with graphic warnings, and models showing the progression of oral diseases such as leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, and oral cancer, all of which are closely linked to tobacco use. Informational pamphlets in Tamil and English were distributed freely to visitors, allowing them to carry the message home and share it with their family and friends.

A major highlight of the program was the free oral screening camp conducted near the park entrance. A mobile dental unit was deployed, and visitors were encouraged to undergo basic oral health checks. More than 180 individuals were screened, and several cases of tobacco-related lesions were detected.

These individuals were advised on the next steps for further diagnosis and treatment and were referred to the tobacco cessation clinic at Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital. In addition to oral examinations, the dental team also offered on-the-spot tobacco cessation counseling. This included assessing an individual’s tobacco usage pattern, explaining the effects of nicotine addiction, and offering personalized strategies for quitting. Information was provided about cessation aids such as nicotine gums, lozenges, and behavioral support. Interested individuals were given contact information and scheduled follow-up appointments at the college for continued support.

One of the most appreciated features of the program was its friendly, non-judgmental approach. The dental team ensured that individuals using tobacco felt comfortable enough to speak about their habits and seek help without shame. The openness and empathy displayed by the volunteers helped build trust and encouraged many to consider quitting for the first time. Children and teenagers were also engaged through age-appropriate educational material, puzzles, and quizzes about the dangers of tobacco, helping to instill early awareness and prevention. Over 300 people actively participated in various activities, and many expressed appreciation for the initiative and requested similar programs in other public spaces.

In conclusion, the Anti-Tobacco Awareness Program at Pallikaranai Eco Park was a successful and meaningful public health initiative. It effectively utilized an open, community-friendly environment to deliver crucial health education in a way that was both informative and emotionally impactful. By combining clinical services with engaging performances and interactive tools, the program inspired many individuals to take their first step toward a tobacco-free life. Encouraged by the positive public response, the organizers plan to continue conducting such outreach programs at parks, schools, and marketplaces to strengthen the fight against tobacco addiction and promote a healthier society.

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