World no tobacco day observed in Chennai

As part of observing "world no tobacco day' today, several associations and government hospitals organised various programme here with an aim to create awareness among masses, particularly the youth about the hazards of tobacco consumption.

City government general hospital organised a 'human chain', which was formed by doctors, nurses, medical and nursing students and workers in front of Madras Medical College.

Indian Dental Association (IDA) organised a cycle rally at the Marina beach to commemorate the day in which Union minister of state, information and broadcasting S Jagathrakashakan participated.

"Use of tobacco and the diagnosis of oral cancer is most of the time first detected by dentists, giving us a very important role in the prevention of this fatal disease", IDA president Dr S M Balaji said.

Meanwhile, 'Pasumai Thiyagam', an NGO in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, has launched an awareness campaign about the ill effects of tobacoo usage.