 Early Times Report
Jammu, June 1 : In order to educate the masses regarding the ever importance of religion and spirituality in preventing cardiovascular diseases by educating people about ill effects of tobacco and associated substance abuse Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu Dr Sushil Sharma held a day long cardiac awareness cum health check up camp at Shri Anandpur Satsang Ashram Bari Brahmana Samba with a purpose to make people aware of this dimension of healthcare particularly with reference to cardiac ailments.
While interacting with the people Dr Sushil Stated that Tobacco’s effect on the cardiovascular system is both insidious and immediate. Smoking leads to the buildup of fatty substances in the arteries (atherosclerosis), reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, raises blood pressure, accelerates heart rate, and places immense strain on the heart. Carbon monoxide, another harmful compound in tobacco smoke, displaces oxygen in the blood, forcing the heart to work harder to supply the body. Even passive or secondhand smoke can significantly increase the risk of CVD in non-smokers, especially children and the elderly.
He elaborated that globally, millions of deaths from heart disease could be prevented by curbing tobacco use. Yet, despite these grim realities, tobacco continues to claim lives with ruthless consistency, propelled by addiction, misinformation, and social acceptance. Religion, at its core, advocates for life, purity, and compassion. Religious institutions have historically played a central role in shaping societal values, providing spiritual comfort, and fostering healthy behaviors. In the fight against tobacco, their influence can be both preventative and transformative. Most religions emphasize respect for the body as a sacred vessel. By highlighting the moral imperative to protect one’s health, religious leaders can inspire individuals to reject harmful habits like smoking. Sermons, teachings, and scriptures can frame tobacco use as not just a health risk, but a spiritual and ethical concern. Faith-based communities offer a unique network of mutual support.
He maintained that Tobacco, once glorified in cultural rituals and glamorized in media, has today been unmasked as one of the most lethal substances known to human health. Among the many organs it imperils, the human heart is perhaps its most tragic victim. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) stands as the leading cause of death worldwide, and tobacco use is a major contributor to this epidemic. However, amidst the shadow of this crisis, a ray of hope emerges from an unexpected place — religious institutions. Rooted in moral guidance, community influence, and the promotion of holistic well-being, religious institutions possess a powerful potential to stem the tide of tobacco addiction and promote heart health.
He added that religious institutions can serve as platforms for health education, partnering with medical professionals to spread awareness about the dangers of tobacco. By integrating health initiatives into religious gatherings and festivals, these messages reach even the most remote and underserved populations. Engaging young people through religious education and activities helps instill values early in life. By promoting tobacco-free lifestyles in youth ministries and religious schools, institutions can prevent addiction before it starts, He Said
In his concluding remarks Dr Sushil Sharma laid emphasis on the fact that Tobacco may be a silent killer, but the voice of faith can be louder. As the world seeks solutions to the growing burden of cardiovascular disease, it must not overlook the profound potential of religious institutions. With compassion, conviction, and community at their core, these sacred spaces can inspire millions to choose life over addiction, healing over harm, and health over habit — one heart at a time.
Management Committee of the Ashram Mahatma Akhad Satyanand Ji ,Mahatma Saar Satyanand Ji , Jai Pal , Rakesh Tewari, Rattan Lal , Prem Kumar, Rakesh Kumar and Raman Kumar appreciated the efforts of Dr Sushil and his team for conducting cardiac awareness cum health check up camp in their premises on this special day and blessed the team.
Others who were part of this camp includes Dr Venkatesh Yellupu , Dr Dhaneshwer Kapoor, Dr Dipinder Bhat and Dr Aditya Sharma. Parammedics and Volunteers include Rajkumar , Raghav Rajput , Makhan Sharma , Rahul Vaid ,Gourav Sharma , Vikas Kumar , Maninder Singh , Rohit Nayyar ,Shastri Sanjay Ganpatya, Mukesh Sharma , Nirvajr Singh Bali and numerous volunteers of the Ashram.
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