Imphal: Manipur health officials marked World No Tobacco Day by calling for urgent action to address the widespread consumption of tobacco products. Speaking at an event in the IMA Hall, Director of Health Services Dr. N. Hemantakumar warned that tobacco negatively impacts nearly every organ in the human body despite ongoing efforts by civil society groups to curb addiction.
The event, held under the theme Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction, was jointly hosted by the Directorate of Health Services, the State Health Society, the National Health Mission Manipur, and the Indian Medical Association Manipur State Branch. Dr. Hemantakumar noted that the deep-rooted culture of tobacco use remains a primary driver of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease among the elderly.
Health risks are not confined to active users, as those exposed to second-hand smoke face significant complications. Tobacco is also a major contributor to non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart attacks, hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Dr. Hemantakumar emphasized that addiction functions as a brain disease that alters the reward system, often making it difficult for individuals to stop on their own.
Because quitting abruptly can prove challenging, medical professionals encouraged tobacco users to seek guidance and counseling. The event saw participation from various health leaders, including NHM State Mission Director Dr. M. Dinesh, Director of Family Welfare Services Dr. N. Bino, and local IMA representatives.
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