News Stardom : Kolkata, 31st May 2025: On World No Tobacco Day, Manipal Hospitals, the largest hospital chain in Eastern India has taken significant step to build a healthier and more prepared society, in association with the Indian Dental Association (IDA) Kolkata Chapter, and supported by KSD Jain Dental College, hosted an awareness session at Uttam Mancha, Kolkata. The initiative aimed to highlight the harmful effects of tobacco use and promote early detection of oral cancers. The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including the Member of Legislative Assembly, Shri Debasish Kumar, as the Chief Guest, and renowned Director, Writer & Actor Mr. Shiboprosad Mukherjee, Actors Srabanti Chatterjee and Sauraseni Maitra who joined as the Special Guests. Also present was Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional COO, Manipal Hospitals (East) besides the distinguished oncology doctors from Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a unit of Manipal Hospitals Group).
As part of its commitment to preventive healthcare, Manipal Foundation, in collaboration with the IDA Kolkata Chapter, is set to launch a city-wide initiative to conduct free cancer screening camps across multiple wards of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. These screenings will aim to identify early-stage cancers and prevent the progression of disease through timely intervention, awareness, and access to appropriate care.
During his speech, Shri Debasish Kumar, Member of Legislative Assembly, stated, “It gives me immense satisfaction to witness an initiative of such significance being undertaken in our city. The collaboration between Manipal Hospitals, Manipal Foundation, the Indian Dental Association (Kolkata Chapter), and KSD Jain Dental College reflects a unified and responsible approach to public health. Across all 144 wards of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, our 144 Urban Primary Health Centres will work in close coordination with the teams from Manipal Hospitals to raise awareness and facilitate cancer screenings by specialist oncology doctors. Beyond medical detection, this initiative will also empower citizens through education, encouraging behavioural change and discouraging tobacco use in all forms. I strongly believe that with continued public-private cooperation and such grassroots-level outreach, we can build a healthier and more informed society.”
Dr. Sourav Datta, Senior Consultant & Director, Medical Oncology, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a unit of Manipal Hospitals Group), stated, “In India, nearly 1.35 million people lose their lives every year due to tobacco use, that is approximately 3,700 deaths every single day, or 154 every hour. Nearly half of our country’s population has been suffering due to tobacco led cancers. These staggering numbers highlight how tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable cancers, especially oral cancers, which are now among the most diagnosed in the country. Early detection is our most effective weapon, and that is where initiatives like ours play a transformative role. In collaboration with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and IDA Kolkata Chapter, and with the committed support of Manipal Foundation, we are launching a city-wide campaign to conduct cancer screening camps across multiple wards of Kolkata. Our mission is clear, to reach the most vulnerable communities, detect cancers at an early and curable stage, and most importantly, educate people to say no to tobacco, for good.”
Director, Writer & Actor Mr. Shiboprosad Mukherjee stated, “As storytellers, we have the power to influence minds, but real change begins with awareness. When I had made my movie Kontho, I wanted to drive this message to the masses at large. I am proud to be part of this initiative by Manipal Hospitals that takes a stand against tobacco and empowers people to choose health over harm.”
Dr. Raju Biswas, Honorary Secretary, Indian Dental Association, West Bengal State Branch, stated, “Tobacco, in any form, be it chewing or smoking, is a proven cause of cancer, not just of the oral cavity but also of the lungs, bladder, and other organs. What is alarming is the growing vulnerability among the youth, especially those aged 20 to 40, who are increasingly getting addicted to products like pan masala, zarda, khaini, and cigarettes. Oral cancer is now among the top three cancers in India, affecting both men and women almost equally. As healthcare professionals, it is our responsibility to raise awareness and guide society toward a tobacco-free future. Dentists are often the first to spot precancerous changes in the mouth. By partnering in this awareness drive with Manipal Hospitals, we aim to underline the serious oral health risks of tobacco use. Community-level screening and education can create a lasting impact in curbing this menace.”
Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional COO, Manipal Hospitals (East), emphasized, “At Manipal Hospitals, we believe healthcare must extend beyond our hospital walls. With its rich legacy of impactful service, Manipal Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to proactive public health engagement. It continues to be a driving force in advancing preventive healthcare and creating lasting change at the grassroots level. Through our collaboration with Kolkata Municipal Corporation, we reinforce our mission to build healthier communities and reduce the burden of cancer in our society.”
Oncologists from Manipal Hospitals will conduct screening camps across boroughs of Kolkata Municipality areas, alongside community engagement activities aimed at youth and vulnerable populations. With its multifaceted approach, Manipal Hospitals reiterates its pledge to lead from the front in the fight against tobacco-related diseases.
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