A comprehensive conference was held at our university, discussing the individual and social effects of tobacco use, the scientific foundations of addiction, and preventive awareness efforts. The program began with a moment of silence and the reading of the National Anthem. Our Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Serel, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Prof. Dr. Ayşe Güldem Kilciler, Dean of the Faculty of Communication Prof. Dr. Hatice Aydın, along with our academic and administrative staff, and students attended the event.

The conference was moderated by our Social Responsibility and Volunteerism Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arzu Bulut. In her opening speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulut emphasized that tobacco use should not be considered merely an individual health issue; it is a multifaceted public health matter with many dimensions, such as production, marketing, accessibility, and social perception.

The invited speaker of the program, Bursa Uludağ University Faculty of Medicine Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Caner Mutlu, delivered a comprehensive presentation discussing the concept of addiction from biological, psychological, and social perspectives. Prof. Dr. Mutlu informed the participants about the types of addiction, the development process of addiction, its neurobiological mechanisms, and the factors that increase susceptibility to addiction, particularly in the young age group.

Drawing attention to the critical importance of brain development during childhood and adolescence in terms of addiction, Prof. Dr. Mutlu stated that young people can be more vulnerable to addictive substances. Mentioning that peer circles, social environment, family structure, and environmental conditions can be decisive in the development of addictive behaviors, Mutlu also pointed out that cigarettes have a strong potential to create addiction.

The presentation also covered the historical development of the tobacco industry and the marketing strategies it uses to reach the younger population. Prof. Dr. Mutlu evaluated the historical transformation of tobacco use within the framework of tobacco's place in the colonial economy, the widespread use of cigarettes with the industrialization process, mass marketing practices, health research, and legal regulations. Furthermore, by drawing attention to some products presented with a "medical" or reduced-harm perception, he shared up-to-date information regarding electronic cigarettes, the contents of e-liquids, and the classification of these products.

Stating that passive smoking carries health risks at least as significant as active use, Prof. Dr. Mutlu focused on risk factors, protective factors, and treatment approaches in tobacco addiction. Explaining the basic steps that can be followed during the smoking cessation process, Mutlu also shared with the participants the positive changes that can occur in individuals' physical and psychological health after quitting.

The conference also evaluated efforts that can be carried out at individual, family, school-based, and societal levels to prevent tobacco use. Prof. Dr. Mutlu stated that medication alone is not sufficient in the fight against addiction; awareness, behavioral change, social support, and preventive approaches must be addressed together. Following the presentation, questions from academicians and students were answered.

At the end of the program, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Prof. Dr. Caner Mutlu by our Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Serel. The event concluded with a group souvenir photo.

🎬 You can access the video here.