Students in Longleng sensitised on ill effects of tobacco

DIMAPUR — The dental unit of District Hospital, Longleng, conducted an awareness programme on ‘ill effects of tobacco’ at St. Joseph School in Longleng town on Wednesday with Dr. Bongau Phom, NTCP district nodal officer of Longleng, as the resource person.

Speaking at the programme, Dr. Bongau informed that tobacco contains nicotine, which is one of the most addictive substances. He has stressed on the need to create awareness among the children on the danger of tobacco consumption stating that when one start consuming tobacco it becomes a lifelong addiction, an update from the chief medical officer (CMO) of Longleng stated.

According to him, the most susceptible time for initiating and experimenting tobacco use is at the tender age of 10 years. He added that the teens, who use tobacco today, is three times more likely than non users to use alcohol, eight times more likely to use marijuana and 22 times more likely to use cocaine.

As tobacco is sold rampant in Longleng, he has suggested on the need to enact strict laws and regulations. He also informed that ninety per cent of oral cancer is cause by tobacco.

Along with the awareness campaign, screening for oral cancer was organised by District Hospital Longleng for students of higher classes by Dr. Bongau Phom and Dr. Lemshikala.

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