In a spirited initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre and HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad, came together on World No Tobacco Day, organized ‘Wheels of Change: Ride Against Tobacco’. The event comprised a two-part community initiative that blended physical activity and creative expression; through a bike rally and a zombie-themed dance performance. It was flagged off by Doctors and promoted public health education, through placards carrying motivational anti-tobacco messages. The bike rally that started from HCG Aastha Cancer Centre and concluded at Teapots Desi Café, drawing participation from bike-rider groups, families, healthcare professionals, and residents of the city. A brief awareness session followed, where HCG doctors and fitness experts shared insights on the impact of tobacco and the importance of timely lifestyle changes. Participants also received eco- conscious giveaways such as plant saplings and reusable straws, to promote healthier living habits. As part of the World No Tobacco Day initiative, HCG organized a creative performance at a prominent residential complex, featuring dancers dressed as zombies to raise awareness about the long-term harm tobacco inflicts on the body. Through expressive storytelling and impactful visual themes, the show shed light on how addiction silently deteriorates health. The performance drew a strong response from the audience and successfully sparked meaningful conversation, excitingly and especially, among young viewers.Dr. Purvi Dave Patel, Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, on the occasion of “World No Tobacco Day”, said, “Tobacco remains one of the top preventable causes of cancer, especially oral and lung cancers. This initiative served as an opportunity to start early conversations within the community especially among the youth regarding the hazards of tobacco use. Raising awareness is vital in preventing the initiation and reducing the consumption of tobacco, and HCG remains committed to actively supporting and participating in such initiatives.” The Department of Cardiac Sciences at HCG Hospitals, Mithakhali, Ahmedabad,emphasized: “Such events facilitate proactive interactions that educate people about the risks of heart disease, stroke, COPD, infertility, and weakened immune systems resulting from tobacco use, including smokeless forms. Fortunately, quitting—even later in life—offers immediate and long-term health benefits, making awareness and early prevention critical in the fight against preventable cancers.” Through this initiative, HCG reaffirmed its commitment to preventive care and community outreach. By combining health messaging with creative formats, including the activity of bike-riding and the medium of performance arts, ‘Wheels of Change’ inspired many to reflect on their choices and move toward healthier, tobacco-free living. The visible and substantive response received by this effort reflects the positive potential for ongoing auto-correction and adoption of healthier lifestyles, especially by the youth. About HCG Aastha Cancer Centre Ahmedabad: HCG Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, is the first dedicated, private, and comprehensive cancer centre in Gujarat, founded with the aim of consistently providing high-quality, result-oriented cancer care by adopting global innovations. The hospital provides quality cancer care treatment through Surgical, Radiation & Medical Oncology, all under one roof with a full range of diagnostics. The team is supported by a qualified and trained team of junior doctors, dietician, physiotherapist & clinical psychologist, who are available to provide complete support to the patients. The clinical team is also supported by a qualified and trained nursing team in areas of operation theatres, emergency, and critical care. About HCG Hospitals Ahmedabad HCG Hospitals Ahmedabad committed to providing quality healthcare services to patients to restore their health as effectively as possible. This multispecialty hospital unit was established in 2007, on the principles of compassion, caring, and community partnership. HCG Hospitals strive to find innovative ways to enhance our quality in patient care by setting exceptional standards, optimal cure, and highest comfort with the help of the latest technology. With our six centres of excellence (Cardiac Care, Spine Surgery, Orthopaedics, Neurological Care, Emergency and Critical Care and GI & Laparoscopic Surgery), we ensure our commitment to delivering quality care is met every single time, keeping patient care and comfort right at the centre of our delivery process.
