Bengaluru, June 3: In a powerful demonstration of community commitment towards a healthier and tobacco-free society, Department of Pulmonary medicine, St. Martha’s Hospital, in association with the Karnataka Pulmonologists Association, organized a grand World No Tobacco Day Walkathon on June 3, 2026, under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.”
The event was flagged off by Shri Madhu Bangarappa, Ex-Hon’ble Minister for Education, Government of Karnataka, and witnessed the participation of nearly 800 people from all walks of life, including healthcare professionals, students, police personnel, social organizations, hospital staff, and members of the general public. The walkathon was conducted around the St. Martha’s Hospital campus with the objective of creating awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and encouraging individuals to embrace a tobacco-free lifestyle.
The programme was graced by several distinguished dignitaries of St. Martha’s Hospital, including:
• Rev. Fr. Thomas Pariyarath, Director
• Dr. Christi Dominic Savio, Medical Superintendent
• Dr. Arun Kumar, Additional Medical Superintendent
• Sr. Deepa, Sister Superior & Secretary
• Sr. Puspha, Nursing Superintendent
• Sr. Ancy, Principal, St. Martha’s College of Nursing
• Dr. Sivasankari R., Consultant Pulmonologist, Organising Secretary & executive committee member of KPA
• And team of our doctors –
• Dr.Sunil Gowda,Urologist
• Dr.Praveen – General Medicine
• Dr.Sunkappa – Spine Surgeon
• Dr.Sahana – General Surgery
• Dr.Nikhil – General Surgery
• Dr.Shilpashree – OBG
• Dr.Ameera – Pulmonary Medicine
• Mr.Ashwin – RT
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries highlighted the alarming rise in tobacco consumption and nicotine addiction, particularly among young people. They emphasized that tobacco continues to be one of the greatest public health threats of modern times, contributing to cancers, heart disease, chronic respiratory illnesses, stroke, and numerous other life-threatening conditions.
The guest speakers delivered insightful and impactful talks on the devastating consequences of tobacco use and the importance of prevention and early intervention. Dr. Jayant Mahadevan, Consultant, Centre for Addiction Medicine, NIMHANS, spoke on “Tobacco Addiction – Ways to Counter It,” while Dr. Lohith G. Reddy, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist, HCG Cancer Hospital, addressed the topic “Tobacco Use and Lung Cancer.” Dr. B. L. Shashi Bhushan, renowned Pulmonologist & Secretary of KPA, shared his expertise on “Tobacco and Lung Disease,” educating participants on the severe impact of tobacco on respiratory health.
As part of the awareness initiative, Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) and medical consultations were also conducted free of cost, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to preventive healthcare and community well-being.
The event resonated strongly with the message “Don’t Let Tobacco Take Your Breath Away,” inspiring participants to become advocates for a tobacco-free future. Through awareness, education, and collective action, St. Martha’s Hospital reaffirmed its longstanding mission of serving humanity and promoting healthier communities.
The overwhelming participation and enthusiastic response from the public underscored the urgent need for continued awareness campaigns against tobacco use and demonstrated the community’s shared determination to combat this growing menace.
