Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology & Research at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital observed World No Tobacco Day 2026 for the 23rd consecutive year by launching a digital spin-wheel-based tobacco awareness initiative on Saturday.
The initiative was launched by Coimbatore City Commissioner of Police Kannan in the presence of Sundar Ramakrishnan, Managing Trustee of SNR Sons Charitable Trust; Dr. Guhan, Director of Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research; and Dr. Karthikesh, Surgical Oncologist.
The launch aimed to educate the public about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and the importance of cancer prevention.
As part of the World No Tobacco Day observance, Sri Ramakrishna Hospital is offering free oral cancer screening and counselling services throughout June, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, to support early detection and tobacco cessation.
The programme was presided over by Sundar Ramakrishnan, while Dr. Guhan delivered the welcome address.
Among those present were Ramkumar, Chief Executive Officer of SNR Sons Charitable Trust; Mahesh Kumar, Chief Administrative Officer; Dr. Rajagopal, Medical Director; Dr. Alagappan, Medical Superintendent; and doctors from the hospital.
The innovative “Cancer Awareness Spin Wheel” features a QR code linked to a digital awareness platform developed to educate the public, particularly youngsters, about the dangers of tobacco use.
Appreciating the initiative, Kannan emphasised the need for continuous public awareness programmes to reduce tobacco consumption and prevent tobacco-related diseases.
Addressing the gathering, Sundar Ramakrishnan said Sri Ramakrishna Hospital remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare through meaningful community outreach programmes. He noted that creating awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco is essential to reducing the burden of cancer and improving public health outcomes.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Guhan highlighted that Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research has been conducting cancer awareness initiatives for more than 23 years through various innovative platforms, including awareness videos, digital resources, websites and community campaigns.
He said the newly introduced game-based “Spin Wheel” QR code offers an engaging and interactive way to educate people about the health risks associated with tobacco use. The platform provides information on the immediate and long-term consequences of tobacco consumption and promotes healthier lifestyle choices through daily awareness messages in Tamil and English.
Dr. Guhan further emphasised that tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of oral, throat and lung cancers, as well as several other life-threatening diseases.
He urged the public to avoid all forms of tobacco, including smoking products, pan masala and gutka, and encouraged individuals to seek early medical consultation if they experience warning signs such as persistent mouth ulcers, white patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing or changes in voice. He also stressed that quitting tobacco significantly reduces the risk of cancer and other serious illnesses.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Karthikesh.
