On 31^st May 2025, to mark World No Tobacco Day, Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital organized a series of public awareness lectures for patients and visitors at the Outpatient Department. The initiative was part of the institution’s commitment to preventive healthcare and aimed at educating the general public on the harmful effects of tobacco use.

The lectures were conducted at regular intervals throughout the day by faculty members and postgraduate students from the Department of Public Health Dentistry. Each session was 15–20 minutes long and designed to engage the audience in a simple and interactive manner. Topics covered included the health consequences of tobacco use, especially on oral health, the risk of oral precancer and cancer, and the importance of early detection and quitting tobacco.

To enhance understanding, visual aids such as posters, flip charts, and short educational videos were used. Pamphlets in both Tamil and English were distributed, containing key information on tobacco-related diseases, self-check tips, and resources for quitting. Patients were encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns during the sessions.

Special emphasis was placed on:The role of dental professionals in early detection of tobacco-related conditions, second-hand smoke and its dangers, importance of quitting tobacco for overall well-being. Over 209 patients attended the sessions throughout the day, and several showed a keen interest in quitting tobacco.

The event was well-received, with positive feedback from patients and attendants who appreciated the hospital's efforts to promote awareness and offer support for tobacco cessation. This initiative reinforced the institution’s mission to educate and empower the public towards healthier lifestyle choices.

Few Pictures from our events