Helping Smokers Quit: Punjab’s Tobacco Cessation Support Services

The Government of Punjab is committed to reducing the health and economic burden of tobacco use by supporting individuals who want to quit smoking. Through its provincial health programs and Tobacco Control Cell, Punjab offers a variety of cessation services designed to guide and assist smokers at every stage of their quitting journey. These efforts not only improve individual health but also contribute to creating smoke-free communities across the province.

1. Counseling and Guidance at Public Health Facilities

Public hospitals and health centers across Punjab provide free counseling services for individuals looking to quit tobacco. Trained healthcare professionals offer:

  • Personalized guidance on how to quit
  • Information on withdrawal symptoms
  • Behavioral support to stay tobacco-free
  • Strategies for managing cravings

These services are available at district headquarters hospitals (DHQs), tehsil headquarters hospitals (THQs), and basic health units (BHUs).

2. Awareness Programs Encouraging Quitting

The Punjab Government regularly conducts awareness activities aimed at motivating smokers to quit. These include:

  • Anti-tobacco seminars and community sessions
  • Distribution of educational materials explaining health risks
  • Social media awareness campaigns targeting youth and adults
  • Collaboration with educational institutions for quit-smoking drives

Such initiatives create a supportive environment that encourages smokers to take the first step toward quitting.

3. Promotion of Smoke-Free Public Spaces

By enforcing smoke-free laws in public areas, the government reduces exposure to second-hand smoke and encourages smokers to quit. Key smoke-free locations include:

  • Government offices
  • Hospitals
  • Public transport and bus terminals
  • Restaurants and markets
  • Parks and recreational areas

Visible No-Smoking signage and routine inspections help maintain compliance and remind smokers to seek help in quitting.

4. Strengthening Enforcement Against Illegal Tobacco Sales

To reduce easy access to tobacco—especially for young people—the Punjab Government strictly monitors the sale and distribution of tobacco products. This includes:

  • Banning sale to individuals under the age of 18
  • Prohibiting sale near educational institutions
  • Taking action against vendors selling loose cigarettes
  • Monitoring advertisement and promotional activities

These laws indirectly support cessation by reducing triggers and limiting availability.

5. Training Healthcare Providers for Effective Cessation Support

The Punjab Health Department conducts regular trainings for doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff on tobacco cessation. These trainings focus on:

  • Counseling techniques
  • Identifying tobacco dependency
  • Best practices for quit plans
  • Effective communication with patients

This enables healthcare professionals to provide consistent and informed support to smokers.

Conclusion

The Punjab Government’s tobacco cessation services demonstrate a strong commitment to helping individuals quit smoking and lead healthier lives. Through free counseling, public awareness programs, strict enforcement of smoke-free laws, and ongoing capacity-building efforts, Punjab is creating a supportive system for smokers ready to take the step toward quitting.

By empowering citizens with the right knowledge and assistance, the province is moving closer to its vision of a tobacco-free, healthier Punjab.