Pune: Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri inaugurated its Tobacco Cessation Centre (TCC) on September 24. The centre is jointly coordinated by the Departments of Community Medicine and Psychiatry. 

The initiative, which began in 2018 with TCCs in dental colleges, now includes medical institutions, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to public health and tobacco control.

The TCCs will provide comprehensive prevention services, helping patients and their families quit tobacco. These services are designed to assist anyone visiting a medical facility, whether they are patients or companions, by offering professional guidance and ongoing follow-up support.

Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, emphasized the institution's dedication to social responsibility: “Our involvement in this initiative reflects our commitment to community health. This step is a vital contribution to creating a tobacco-free future, and we are proud to be part of it.”

Dr. J. S. Bhawalkar, Dean of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, added: “TCCs will make professional support readily available to those battling tobacco addiction, aligning with our vision to serve society and enhance public health.”

The institution's healthcare professionals, including Dr. Hetal Rathod and Dr. Suprakash Chaudhury, stressed the importance of personalized support for tobacco users, offering comprehensive services that address both physical and psychological challenges.

The TFYC 2.0 campaign also aims to engage communities with awareness initiatives, particularly focusing on preventing first-time tobacco use among the youth. Social media influencers are playing an essential role in amplifying this message.