By:
Dr. A. C. Kataki
Director, Medical Administration
PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free Campaign):
Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (Drug-Free Campaign) is a nationwide mass movement aimed at tackling substance abuse through community outreach and mass awareness, treatment, and rehabilitation. The strategy involves education on the harmful effects of drug and substance addiction, control of supply, demand reduction and medical treatment including rehabilitation.
One of the first gateways to the world of drugs is the use of tobacco in any form. Many people are aware about the harmful effects of tobacco on health, leading to a large number of premature deaths in our country. There are financial consequences in the family. About 14 lakhs people in our country die every year from tobacco related diseases.
THE 4D TECHNIQUE:
It is a simple behavioral strategy to manage and overcome nicotine cravings to quit smoking.
Delay: To wait for 5 to 10 minutes when one feels like smoking. Most intense urges pass off quickly if we don’t act upon it.
Do something else: To shift focus and keep hands and minds busy. Talk to someone or do something. Avoid triggers like the urge to smoke while reading a newspaper or having a cup of tea etc. Some people have the habit of smoking in the toilet.
Drink Water: Sip a glass of water slowly. This keeps the mouth busy and refreshes the body.
Deep Breathing: To take slow deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold it for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth to quieten the nervous system.
Counseling and Nicotine Replacement Therapy: Sometimes behavioral therapy and nicotine replacement therapy may be necessary. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India runs a Regional Tobacco Quit Line Centre at Dr B Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati (Toll Free No 1800112356) for free Counseling.
On the 80th Independence Day, PA Sangma International Medical College & Hospital, Meghalaya, makes an appeal to Yuva Shakti for a Tobacco Free Vikshit Bharat.