P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre marks World No Tobacco Day with impactful installation

New Delhi: On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day 2025, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre in association with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) – G North Ward unveiled impactful public installations at Shivaji Park and Dadar Kabutarkhana to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use in India particularly among the youth.

These installations emphasizes the alarming rise in cancer and chronic lung diseases linked to tobacco consumption, underlining the urgent need for preventive action and greater awareness.

Tobacco continues to be one of India’s most critical public health challenges. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco use is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases, including cancer, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease and stroke leading to approximately 1.35 million deaths every year. As per the Global Audit Tobacco Survey 2016-17, 29% of Indian adults aged 15 and above use tobacco mostly in smokeless forms such as khaini, gutkha and betel quid with tobacco.

Joy Chakraborty, COO, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, said, “At P.D Hinduja Hospital our mission extends beyond patient care to fostering healthier communities. Tobacco remains a silent yet significant threat, often underestimated until the damage is done. These installations are being set up not just to inform, but to provoke reflection on how deeply tobacco has embedded itself in our society. By encouraging early awareness, we aim to spark meaningful conversations and support healthier choices especially among youths.”

Vispute, Asst., Commissioner of G North from Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), said, “In India, the second-largest producer of tobacco in the world tobacco remains a leading cause of cancer and respiratory illnesses but knowledge is worryingly low. Today many young individuals misjudge the long-term repercussions of tobacco use and continue its consumptions. Through this installation, we hope to educate and engager people—especially our younger generation—to make educated choices and avoid the permanent damage that tobacco causes.”

Dr. Lancelot Pinto, Consultant – Pulmonologist at P. D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, said, ”Tobacco-related illnesses often develop gradually, but their impact can be profound. Tobacco use is a leading contributor to a host of debilitating diseases from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to various forms of cancer. Clinically, we see its devastating effects far too often, often when it’s too late. This initiative is a crucial reminder that tobacco is not just a habit it is a potent health hazard. Awareness is the first intervention and timely cessation can make all the difference.”