Thiruvananthapuram, August 01: Marking World Lung Cancer Day, KIMSHEALTH Cancer Centre, in association with ‘ Toofan Care’, launched ‘Beat the Fumes’, a lung cancer awareness programme aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of tobacco use, drug abuse, the importance of cancer prevention and the adoption of healthy lifestyle practices. The programme was inaugurated by Ramesh Chennithala, Minister for Home and Vigilance, at a function held at KIMSHEALTH.
‘Operation Toofan’ is the Kerala State Home Department’s anti-narcotic campaign, implemented in collaboration with the Police and Excise Departments. The programme commenced with hoisting of the ‘Toofan Care ‘ campaign flag by the Home Minister.
In his Presidential address, Dr. M. I. Sahadulla, Group Chairman and Managing Director, KIMSHEALTH, stressed the need for greater public awareness especially among the students on the ill effects of tobacco as well as substance abuse . ” Tobacco use and drug abuse continues to be a leading cause of lung cancer and remains a significant public health challenge. KIMSHEALTH remains committed to supporting the State Government’s efforts to eliminate the drug menace through sustained awareness and community engagement,” he added.
In his inaugural address, Ramesh Chennithala appreciated KIMSHEALTH for joining hands with the Toofan Care initiative in the fight against substance abuse and for its commitment to creating a drug-free society “Substance abuse is at the root of many problems faced by families today”. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to eliminating the use of drugs through sustained action and collective efforts to build a safer and healthier society.
The campaign will feature a series of awareness programmes, including public education sessions, counselling and rehabilitation sessions, community outreach initiatives, and health awareness activities. As part of the event, badges were distributed to students from different schools in the city , as well as the Student Police Cadets.
E. M. Najeeb, Co-founder, KIMSHEALTH, welcomed the gathering. Dr. Arul R. B. Krishna IPS, City Police Commissioner, Thiruvananthapuram, and Dr.Praveen Muralidharan, Vice President, Medical Affairs, Aster DM Quality Care, were also part of the programme.