NMC Directs Establishment of Tobacco Cessation Centres in Medical Colleges

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has instructed medical colleges nationwide to establish tobacco cessation centres. This initiative aims to enhance the healthcare framework and curb tobacco use, thereby promoting public health. The centres will also function as drug de-addiction facilities and will extend to both rural and urban health centres under college management.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has directed medical colleges across India to set up 'tobacco cessation centres' as a measure to combat the adverse effects of tobacco use and to promote public health.

According to a circular issued by the NMC on Friday, this initiative seeks to strengthen healthcare by integrating specialized tobacco cessation services into the medical educational and healthcare framework.

Hospitals attached to medical colleges are also required to establish these centres, which may be managed by the Department of Psychiatry or other relevant departments. Additionally, these centres will act as drug de-addiction centres and will be established in rural and urban health centres adopted by the colleges for training.