The World No Tobacco Day is a global initiative held annually on May 31st to raise awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. In collaboration with the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (IPSF EMRO), GMU Pharmacy Students’ Association (GPSA) Students implemented the campaign at Thumbay University Hospital (TUH) that aimed to educate patients visiting for consultations about the harmful effects of tobacco and encourage them to quit or avoid tobacco use.
The primary objective of the campaign was to raise awareness among patients at TUH about the adverse health effects of tobacco use, promote a smoke-free environment, and provide support for those looking to quit tobacco. GPSA team developed promotional materials such as posters, flyers, and social media content to inform patients about the upcoming campaign. These materials highlighted the significance of World No Tobacco Day and emphasized the importance of a smoke-free lifestyle.
Several booths were set up strategically throughout TUH to maximize visibility and reach. Trained volunteers staffed the booths and engaged with patients, providing them with informational brochures, pamphlets, and other educational materials. These resources covered topics such as the health risks of tobacco use, tips for quitting, and available resources for support. These sessions allowed patients to ask questions, receive personalized advice, and gain a deeper understanding of the benefits of quitting tobacco.
The event witnessed active participation from a large number of patients, generating a positive impact. Key outcomes include:
- Increased awareness: Through the distribution of educational materials and engagement at the awareness booths, the campaign successfully disseminated important information about the health risks of tobacco use. Patients gained knowledge about the detrimental effects of tobacco and the benefits of quitting.
- Behavioral change: The interactive sessions and NRT counseling played a vital role in motivating patients to quit tobacco. Many patients expressed their willingness to quit or reduce tobacco consumption, and some even sought immediate assistance from healthcare professionals to start their cessation journey.
The World No Tobacco Day campaign, conducted in collaboration with IPSF EMRO, successfully raised awareness among patients visiting Thumbay University Hospital for consultations.