Substance Use Disorder Awareness Programme Conducted at SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital

The Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital, organised a Substance Use Disorder Awareness Programme from 26 January 2026 to 31 January 2026. The programme aimed to educate patients and their attendants about substance use disorder and its adverse effects on both general and oral health.

As a premier institution under SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital remains committed to comprehensive oral healthcare and actively contributes to public health initiatives. The institution consistently emphasises preventive care, patient education, and community-oriented programmes beyond routine clinical services.

The programme was enriched by the presence of the esteemed guest speaker, Dr. B. Kalpana Kosalram, Professor, SRM School of Public Health, who provided valuable insights from a public health perspective on substance use disorders. The event was also supported by the leadership and guidance of Dr. N. Vivek, Dean, SRMKDC, and Dr. K. T. Magesh, Vice Principal, SRMKDC, whose contributions enhanced the overall impact of the programme.

During the programme, individual counselling sessions were conducted to motivate patients to reduce or quit harmful habits. Educational pamphlets were distributed to reinforce awareness, and nicotine replacement therapy was provided to individuals willing to quit tobacco use. Informative models were exhibited, and IEC materials were prepared and displayed to further strengthen patient understanding.

An awareness video on substance use disorder, created by the interns, was screened, highlighting student involvement in public health education. A reels competition was also conducted to encourage innovative and digital dissemination of awareness messages among students.

The programme successfully helped patients recognise the importance of substance cessation and highlighted the crucial role of oral health professionals in early identification, counselling, and prevention of substance-related disorders. Such initiatives reflect SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital’s continued commitment to building a healthier society through education, compassion, and interdisciplinary collaboration.