KATHMANDU, MARCH 4

As a cardiologist, Dr Sagar Thapa shared that he has seen how smoking can hurt people-taking away young lives and breaking families apart.

"Yet, I've also witnessed hope and change when individuals decide to reclaim their health," he said.

He shared a remarkable journey of a 45-year-old banker who transformed his life after being inspired by a health campaign called Smokers Are Not Selfish, organised by the Dr. Om Foundation. His decision not only improved his well-being but also strengthened his bond with his family.

"During a recent visit to my outpatient department, this banker arrived looking healthier and more energetic than ever," he said.

"When I reviewed his reports, I was pleasantly surprised to find that his high cholesterol and blood pressure had returned to normal, allowing him to stop medications he had relied on for years. It was a strong reminder that change is possible for those who are committed to improving their health."

Curious about his outcome, he asked what had prompted this transformation. His answer was simple yet powerful: he had quit smoking.

For over 20 years, he struggled with smoking, making multiple attempts to quit but always failing. This time, however, it was different. He took part in the campaign, where the message-'Expressing love to loved ones by giving up smoking with a purposeful intention'-deeply inspired him. It reminded him that quitting wasn't just about his own health but also about his family's well-being. His renewed determination ultimately helped him overcome the greatest challenge of his life: quitting smoking.

From the moment he learnt about the campaign, he was determined to quit smoking. That same day, he reached out to the foundation's medical team for support. On the final day of the campaign, the foundation organised a free heart camp, offering checkups to all attendees, including those who had quit smoking during the campaign. He participated in the event, underwent a free checkup, and listened to inspiring stories from others who had successfully quit. Hearing their experiences, combined with the guidance of doctors, he strengthened his commitment to quit smoking.

However, his test results still weren't ideal, emphasizing the need for further lifestyle changes. Determined to take control of his health, he not only overcame one of the biggest challenges of his life-quitting smoking-but also embraced a healthier lifestyle.

He mentioned that a few weeks after quitting, he noticed significant changes. Since then, he has felt lighter and more refreshed every morning. His breathing has improved dramatically, and the persistent cough that once troubled him has disappeared. Even the lingering smell of tobacco is gone, replaced by a newfound sense of cleanliness and confidence. Perhaps most importantly, his improved health has strengthened his family bonds-his children now look at him with pride, and his wife feels at peace, knowing that a healthier, longer future lies ahead for all of them.

This inspiring achievement highlights a broader public health challenge. According to the 2019 STEPS survey, 28.9% of Nepalese adults (aged 15–69) use tobacco products, with 17.1% of the total population smoking-22% of men and 6% of women.

The average age of smoking initiation is just 17.8 years. Despite strict measures under Nepal's Tobacco Act 2011-such as banning smoking in public places, prohibiting sales to minors and pregnant women, and enforcing graphic warnings on cigarette packaging-tobacco use remains a significant concern.

"Since I volunteered as part of the medical team for the Dr. Om Foundation in this campaign-guiding people to quit smoking and providing necessary support-I felt proud to be involved, especially after witnessing this remarkable success story that transformed the life of an ordinary man whose family, including small children, depended on his well-being," Thapa added.

"This is why public health campaigns are essential in raising awareness and encouraging people to quit harmful practices. Such initiatives play a crucial role in bringing meaningful change to people's lives by empowering them to make healthier choices and break free from harmful habits."

Nearly a year after the launch of the Smokers Are Not Selfish campaign, its impact on everyday lives remains evident. Seeing individuals like this 45-year-old banker overcome tobacco addiction underscores the importance of these initiatives from a public health perspective, especially when considering the role of the private sector.