AMNS India promotes tobacco awareness in Odisha villages

Bhubaneswar: In a significant effort to combat the harmful effects of tobacco, ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) conducted a series of awareness sessions across villages in Paradeep and Barbil under its “Aarogya” health initiative.

These events, organised to mark World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2024, emphasised the World Health Organisation’s theme of “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference.”

In Phulbelari village, Paradeep, a comprehensive awareness session engaged Anganwadi workers, ANM workers, paramedical staff, and SHG members.

Dr Niranjan Dwivedi of AM/NS India led the discussion, highlighting severe health risks such as heart attack, stroke and oral cancer associated with tobacco use. Dr Dwivedi also provided guidance on quitting tobacco through determination, mental willingness and continuous counselling.

Similarly, in Sagasahi, Barbil, over 80 community members, including truck drivers and labourers, participated in an awareness event. Pramod Mishra, head of Health and Safety, Mines, AM/NS India, Satyakama Das, mines manager, Sagasahi, AM/NS India, and Dr Parameswar Sethi, medical officer at the Community Health Dispensary in Kalmang village, addressed the gathering. They focused on the dangers of tobacco and the benefits of quitting, culminating in participants taking a pledge to lead a tobacco-free life.

In Dalki village, Thakurani, women from the community voiced their concerns about rising tobacco habits among children and the challenges of addiction during another awareness session.