On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, SDM College of Dental Sciences & Hospital, Dharwad, conducted an Oral Screening and Tobacco Awareness Camp at Rashtrotthana Vidya Kendra, Udayagiri, Sattur, Dharwad on 29th May 2025.

The initiative aimed to educate students about the harmful effects of tobacco and promote early detection of oral health issues. The camp was organized with the combined efforts of the Departments of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Pedodontics, and Public Health Dentistry.

The dental team included:

• Dr. Kirty Nandimath – Professor & HOD, Dept. of Oral Medicine and Radiology

• Dr. Veena Pujari – Associate Professor, Dept. of Oral Medicine and Radiology

• Dr. Megha Mary George – Tutor, Dept. of Oral Medicine and Radiology

• Dr. Priyanka – Associate Professor, Dept. of Pedodontics

• Dr. Mamatha – Tutor, Dept. of Public Health Dentistry

• Along with postgraduates and house surgeons from the respective departments

As part of the awareness initiative, Dr. Megha Mary George delivered a health talk titled “Be Smart, Don’t Start”, highlighting the growing use of tobacco among youth and its adverse health consequences.

A total of 670 students and staff members were screened during the camp. Individuals requiring further care were referred to SDM College of Dental Sciences & Hospital through referral cards for follow-up treatment.

This outreach program underscores SDMCDSH’s commitment to community oral health and tobacco cessation awareness.