Times of India
01 June 2011
Bangalore, India

World Anti-Tobacco Day
With cancer cases increasing by the day, a lot of Bangaloreans came forward pledging to quit tobacco. Bangaloreans turned out in large numbers and got themselves screened as part of World Anti-Tobacco Day on Tuesday.

It all began with chief minister Yeddyurappa signing the pledge at Freedom Park to help curb the growing menace of tobacco. He promised to support any movement to help get rid of hazards like gutka and khaini.

Mohan Raj, an ex-serviceman who suffered from cancer which forced surgical removal of his voice box, shared his experience with the CM. In all, 1,000 persons gathered to get themselves counselled and see the exhibition at Freedom Park.

Later in the day, 380 residents of South Bangalore were screened for lung ailments. Doctors at Arogya Vahana – a special vehicle organized by Sagar Hospitals – carried out free check-up across South Bangalore, from Banashankari to Isro and Kumaraswamy layout.

Yoga at Help
HCG Hospitals and the state police department organized a health camp for its personnel on the harmful effects of tobacco and how to quit the habit through yoga

Consulatant at HCG, Dr Raghavendra, said: "Yoga cultivates determination and willpower in a smoker which are the primary strengths to quit smoking. It also improves the the lung’s capacity," he said.

Walk the Talk
Apollo Hospital organized a walkathon to create awareness on health impacts of tobacco. The walkers assembled in front of the hospital on Bannerghatta Road at 7.30am armed with slogan boards appealing to give up smoking.

The Public Health Foundation of India launched a website about different methods for tobacco control. Short-term online courses on tobacco control were also launched.