A smoking cessation awareness campaign “Quit Now” saw the participation of 35 students, faculty and alumni from Qatar University College of Pharmacy (QU-CPH).
Organized in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) Tobacco Control Unit, Qatar Pharmacy Undergraduate Society (QPhUS) and QU Alumni Association CPH Chapter, the campaign aimed to raise community awareness on issues related to smoking effects and prevention measures, and the various resources available at HMC Smoking Cessation Clinic to assist smokers in quitting the use of tobacco and other smoking-related products.
Members at the CPH booth briefed the large number of visitors on the negative impact smoking has on health, and performed tests on the level of carbon dioxide in their blood. The booth also showcased a 3D display showing the various types of tobacco products and nicotine assessment tests. A kids area was set up to engage children in artistic activities on awareness of the negative effects of smoking.
Commenting on the event, CPH dean Dr AymanEl-Kadi said: “Promoting a smoke-free society is an important initiative to help people lead healthier lifestyles, and is an integral part of being a pharmacist. Our students, alumni and faculty showed exemplary leadership as distinguished ambassadors of QU and the College. Collaboration with HMC Tobacco Control Unit is testament to our ongoing efforts to advance healthcare education and training in line with national aspirations towards fulfilling the goals of the National Health Strategy and QNV 2030.”
HMC Tobacco Control Unit senior project officer Ms Nadia Fanous said: “This is not the first time the Unit has collaborated with QU College of Pharmacy. We are engaged in research studying the effectiveness of cessation services provided by pharmacists to smokers. Such a partnership shows the commitment to preparing future well-trained pharmacists in community outreach to provide not only advanced healthcare treatment but also better health education and promotion.”
CPH assistant dean for student affairs Mrs AllaEl-Awaisi said: “This event provided a significant opportunity for senior pharmacy students to learn from their alumni counterparts and benefit from their supportive mentorship. It also highlights the College’s mission to provide its students with a wide range of activities in which they can apply theoretical concepts outside the classroom, and develop communication, teamwork and other professional skills needed in line with the College’s vision to prepare students to provide optimal pharmaceutical care and advance healthcare outcomes.”
CPH Alumni Chapter president OraibAbdallah said: “It has been an amazing experience for CPH alumni to participate in this campaign. The support from CPH and QU Alumni Association has been overwhelming and is greatly appreciated. The involvement of pharmacy graduates and students in such health awareness activities is a vital component for helping smokers to quit and make Qatar free from tobacco use. We are looking forward to working with CPH again in such initiatives as we strive to help build a healthier Qatar.”
QPhUS president and 3rd-yearCPH student Amani Al Haddad said: “This event was a great opportunity to educate the public on the negative effects of smoking. We look forward to participating in future events that raise awareness on important health issues and improving the overall health of Qatari society.”
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