Allied Healthcare Department

Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (RCTC)

Leading evidence-based tobacco control through cessation, prevention, research, and policy action

Comprehensive Allied Care. Dedicated to clinical excellence since 1954.

Tobacco control is a critical priority in both cancer prevention and treatment. Our mission is to provide structured support that empowers individuals to quit successfully while building a tobacco-free society through education and policy enforcement.
Dr. V. SurendranProfessor and HeadM.A, M.Phil, Ph.D
Our Work

About the Department

Leading evidence-based tobacco control through cessation, prevention, research, and policy action

Mission and Evolution

The Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (RCTC) at Cancer Institute (WIA) is a specialized department dedicated to advancing tobacco tobacco cessation, prevention, research, and capacity building. Inaugurated on 19th December 2001 with support from WHO and MoHFW, it has evolved into a nodal centre providing technical leadership for tobacco control across South India.

Multi-dimensional Approach

The department works to prevent and reduce tobacco use through structured cessation services, community outreach, behavioral support, and training. By embedding evidence-based interventions into oncology services, RCTC improves treatment outcomes, reduces recurrence risks, and promotes tobacco-free survivorship.

Innovative Public Health Initiatives

RCTC implements youth-focused intervention programs, advocates for smoke-free public places, and provides training for stakeholders on tobacco control and alternative livelihoods. Our efforts extend to creating tobacco-free educational institutions and villages across Tamil Nadu.

Assessment

Diagnostic Techniques & Procedures

We leverage specialized tools and validated assessment protocols to accurately screen and evaluate clinical distress, cognitive functioning, and rehabilitation needs.

Assessment Methods

Tobacco Use History (CRF) - Frequency and duration assessment

Nicotine Dependence Assessment (Fagerström Test)

Motivational Assessment - Readiness to quit evaluation

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Monitoring

Behavioral Risk Assessment - Trigger identification

Oral Screening - Early detection of lesions

Clinical Care

Conditions Treated

Tobacco Addiction and Nicotine Dependence

Head and Neck Cancers (tobacco-related)

Lung Cancer (tobacco-related)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Cardiovascular Disease related to tobacco

Second-hand Smoke Exposure Effects

Interventions

Treatment Options

Clinical

Individual & Group Cessation Counseling

Behavioral

Therapy for Nicotine Dependence

Counseling

Motivational Interviewing

Medical

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) guidance

Medical

Pharmacotherapy Guidance (Psychiatrist supervised)

Clinical

Relapse Prevention Programs

Support

Tobacco Cessation Support Group

Early Intervention

Prevention & Screening

Quit tobacco in all forms (smoking and smokeless)

Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke

Regular oral screening for tobacco users

Low dose CT scan for long-term smokers

Counseling for adolescents experimenting with tobacco

Monitoring for non-healing mouth ulcers and persistent cough

Our Infrastructure

Facilities & Equipment

Tobacco Cessation Clinic - Dedicated outpatient services

Tobacco Cessation Clinic - Dedicated outpatient services

Carbon Monoxide Monitor - smoking exposure measurement

Carbon Monoxide Monitor - smoking exposure measurement

Adolescent Prevention Module - School-based program

Adolescent Prevention Module - School-based program

Alternative Livelihood Training - Skill development for beedi rollers

Alternative Livelihood Training - Skill development for beedi rollers

YACC Clubs - Youth leadership in cancer prevention

YACC Clubs - Youth leadership in cancer prevention

Distinction

Key Achievements

A testament to our pioneering contributions in South Asia's medical physics and oncology curriculum research, establishing a legacy of clinical excellence.

Educational Hub

Leading center in training international and national postgraduate fellows.

Clinical Impact: 4,070+ individuals treated with a quit rate exceeding 30%.

Public Awareness: 1,770+ awareness programs conducted, reaching millions through IEC materials.

Institutional Change: 854 tobacco-free institutions created, including Anna University.

Capacity Building: 670+ healthcare professionals trained; 82 TCCs facilitated across Tamil Nadu.

Social Impact: 1,209 beedi rollers trained in alternative livelihoods (Tailoring, Wig making).

Heritage & History

Our Legacy

2001

Tobacco Cessation Centre (TCC) inaugurated on 19th December.

2002

Designated as a nodal centre for tobacco control by WHO.

2013

Initiation of school-based awareness programs, sensitizing 100,000+ students.

2020

Launch of Phase I alternative livelihood training for beedi rollers.

Get in Touch

Contact the Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (RCTC) team

For clinical enquiries, collaborative research requests, or postgraduate academic admissions details, please contact us directly.