ABU DHABI // Labourers are being encouraged to stub out their smoking habit and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Lifecare Hospital in Baniyas has launched a three-month campaign at labour camps across the emirate to raise awareness about the toxic effects of tobacco.
“Lifecare Hospital Baniyas mostly caters to low-income workers living in the area,” said Dr Arun Menon, director of operations at the hospital. “We are aware that the majority of their health issues are due to an unhealthy lifestyle and one of the major causes is lack of awareness regarding the harmful effects of smoking. Our aim is to conduct regular campaigns, which will have a direct impact on their daily lifestyle, hence making their lives healthier.”
Tobacco kills nearly six million people each year, according to the World Health Organisation. More than five million of those deaths are the result of direct tobacco use, while more than 600,000 are the result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke. The annual death toll could rise to more than eight million worldwide by 2030.
Quitting smoking can help lower the risk of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, emphysema, hypertension and kidney disease.
The first phase of the hospital’s Step Up Campaign will be through cricket tournaments in various camps.
Smokers will be encouraged to enrol in the smoking-cessation initiative and visit Lifecare Hospital for counselling sessions.
The campaign also includes yoga and laughter therapy to reduce stress levels among participants, who will also be given fruit baskets, lunch coupons and various gift hampers to encourage them in their journey towards a smoke-free life.
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