Compliance to tobacco-free guidelines (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act) in medical institute of North India

Abstract

Background: The study aimed to investigate the compliance to prohibition of smoking (under Section 4 of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act [COTPA]) and other provisions under COTPA in a medical college situated in Chandigarh, the first smoke-free city of the country. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey conducted at 57 sites within the medical institute. The data were collected using the structured compliance monitoring tool based on the COTPA guidelines. Results: “No active smoking” was seen at 75% of sites and there was display of signage at 28% of sites. There was the absence of cigarette butts, used matchsticks, gutkha wrappers, etc., in corners which are the secondary indicators of smoking at 70% of all sites surveyed. Conclusion: The study highlights the various loop holes in successful enforcement of COTPA. The study highlights the need to sensitize the administration on COTPA implementation with the development of well-established coordinating systems, wide publicity, and empowering reporting officers to compound offence and impound fine.

Keywords

• Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act
• compliance
• tobacco