Tell children about the dangers of smoking: CM

Freedom from Tobacco — Bengaluru Unites kicked off with a bang at Freedom Park yesterday. This initiative launched by doctors for the citizens of Bangalore is part of the global awareness campaign on World No Tobacco Day. The chief guest of the event was chief minister B S Yeddyurappa. Other dignitaries who graced the occasion were Shardamma, mayor; Harish, deputy mayor; Siddaiah, BBMP commissioner and Dinesh Gundurao, MLA amongst others.Said Dr Vishal Rao (head and neck cancer surgeon), one of the organisers, “We are extremely grateful to have the honourable chief minister and the mayor amongst other dignitaries who have decided to grace this occasion with their presence. This programme accentuates on the perils of tobacco consumption in our country and all over the world. Today, India has the highest number of oral cancer cases in the world. We urge everyone to curb this menace and take a step towards better and healthier life.”On display at the park were interesting collages and posters by students spreading awareness on the harmful effects of smoking. For those who wish to quit, individual counselling sessions were conducted by several doctors and health workers throughout the event at People’s Plaza Area. Freedom from Tobacco — Bengaluru Unites was an initiative supported by Indian Medical Assosiation (IMA), Indian Dental Assosiation (IDA), Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences and RajaRajeswari Medical College and Hospital among others.“Over 50 lakh people die every year owing to tobacco consumption. Smoking can have adverse effects on health and may even lead to cancer. I would like to take this opportunity to compliment the organisers of  Freedom from Tobacco — Bengaluru Unites who have taken several measures to spread awareness on consumption of tobacco. I assure you that the government will take all possible steps to support this campaign. I urge all parents to take active interest in this cause and educate children on the harmful effects of smoking,” said B S Yeddyurappa.There were live musical performances and cultural activities by doctors throughout the day.