ANTI SMOKING SOCIETY MARKS WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY WITH AWARENESS PROCESSION AND DISCUSSION
Doha: The Anti Smoking Society, an NGO functioning under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health, State of Qatar, observed World No Tobacco Day with a meaningful awareness procession and an engaging group discussion held at the Mediaplus Conference Room, reinforcing its commitment to building a tobacco-free society through education, awareness, and community action.
The programme brought together health professionals, social activists, entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders who collectively stressed the urgent need to address smoking as a major public health threat and intensify awareness efforts against tobacco use.
The event was inaugurated by noted socio-cultural activist and entrepreneur Muhammed Noushad Abu, who called upon society to make united and concerted efforts to eliminate smoking and tobacco consumption. He observed that smoking continues to destroy lives, families, and public health, and therefore requires a strong collective response from communities, institutions, and policymakers. He urged people to become ambassadors of anti-smoking awareness and inspire younger generations to adopt healthy lifestyles.
Delivering keynote speeches, Nizar Cheruvath, General Secretary of UNIQ, and Shyni Santhosh, Acting Director of Nursing Education and Managing Committee member of FINQ, highlighted the importance of taking the World No Tobacco Day message to every section of society. They called upon the community to work hand in hand towards creating a tobacco-free environment, emphasizing that tobacco addiction remains one of the most dangerous public health challenges worldwide.
Speaking on the cosmetic and health-related consequences of smoking, Dr. Sheela Philip, Managing Director of Doha Beauty Centre, elaborated on how smoking adversely affects physical appearance, skin quality, dental health, and overall wellness. She emphasized that smoking not only damages internal health but also visibly accelerates ageing and deteriorates personal well-being.
Jeby K. John spoke about the wider social evils associated with smoking and the impact tobacco addiction has on families, social harmony, and productivity. He stressed the importance of community vigilance and preventive education.
Noted art teacher and President of GRCC, Roshni Krishnan, underlined the destructive impact of smoking and urged immediate preventive action to protect future generations from nicotine addiction and related health complications. She captured the attention of the audience by live painting of Anti Smoking Society logo in 4 minutes.
Highlighting the severe consequences brought by tobacco consumption, Uwais Usman, CEO of The Way Corporate Services, described smoking as a social calamity affecting both individuals and communities and called for strong countermeasures through awareness, education, and behavioural change.
Nishad Kunnath Kodakat, Commercial Manager of World Fruit Centre, shared reflections inspired by the life experience of legendary actor Kamal Haasan and observed that quitting smoking can help preserve the charm, vitality, and quality of life. He encouraged individuals struggling with tobacco addiction to make courageous decisions toward healthier living.
Psychologist Aysha Saibool of Asta Soul highlighted the psychological dimensions of smoking addiction and stressed the importance of counselling, emotional support, and sustained anti-smoking activities to help individuals overcome dependency.
Social worker Sidhik Cheruvallur emphasized the need for continuous public awareness campaigns, especially among youth, schools, and workplaces, to prevent tobacco initiation and encourage healthy behavioural patterns.
Anuj Jose of Ceprotec called upon the audience to unite against smoking and other social evils, observing that collective social responsibility is essential for building a healthier and safer society.
Sham Doha also addressed the gathering and highlighted the harmful consequences of smoking, stressing the need for stronger awareness initiatives and community participation.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Amanulla Vadakkangara, Founder and CEO of the Anti Smoking Society, outlined the organisation’s ongoing awareness initiatives and future plans aimed at combating smoking and promoting healthier lifestyles. He sought the active support and cooperation of individuals, organisations, healthcare professionals, and volunteers in strengthening this humanitarian movement dedicated to safeguarding public health and social well-being.
The programme concluded with a renewed pledge among participants to intensify anti-smoking awareness activities and work collectively toward realising the vision of a tobacco-free society.
The activities were coordinated by Muhammed Rafeeq Thankayathil and Zainul Abid, whose efforts ensured the smooth conduct of the event.
