Special Teams Established in Istanbul Are in the Field to Fight Smoking
The Tobacco Control Teams, implemented by the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate, reach out to citizens smoking on the streets and direct them to health institutions.
Tobacco Control Teams established within the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate inform citizens smoking in squares and streets, measure their addiction levels, and connect those who want to quit smoking with relevant health services.
Field Studies and Information Activities
Within the scope of the efforts initiated in April within the Public Health Directorate of the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate, special teams conduct field screenings in areas crowded with citizens. The teams approach people smoking on the street and provide detailed information about the harms of tobacco products on health.
Addiction Measurements and Referrals
During the interviews, a nicotine addiction test is administered, if deemed appropriate, to citizens who want to quit smoking. In addition, measurements are made to determine the carbon monoxide level in the body to support the process.
Health Institutions and Consultation Lines
Following the evaluations, citizens who want to quit smoking are directed to smoking cessation outpatient clinics in line with their needs. The teams also provide guidance to citizens about the Alo 171 Smoking Cessation Consultation Line.
Scope of the Struggle and Provided Support
Dr. Mete Güngör, Deputy Head of Public Health, states that tobacco use causes the death of more than 7 million people worldwide every year and that passive exposure also poses a serious risk. More than 60 smoking cessation outpatient clinics provide services across Istanbul.
Free Health Services and Number of People Reached
Tobacco control services are offered completely free of charge in primary health care institutions, Healthy Life Centers, district health directorates, and family health centers, as well as hospitals. Since April, over 20,000 citizens have been reached across Istanbul.