Mumbai Surgeon Wins U.S. Award for Anti-Tobacco Campaign

"Dr. Chaturvedi has not only created a lasting legacy in India, but also provided a global example in combating tobacco use," said Matthew L. Myers, President of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

As a head and neck cancer surgeon at one of India's leading cancer hospitals, Chaturvedi was motivated to act by the suffering of patients with tobacco-caused cancers.

Described by his colleagues as visionary, tireless and undaunted, Chaturvedi recognized that fundamental change wouldn't happen until public figures had to confront the horrifying reality that he sees every day in his operating room, according to a media release.

So Chaturvedi "launched the Voice of Tobacco Victims campaign. This revolutionary campaign has mobilized tobacco victims and their doctors to confront India's leaders and demand that they enact and implement strong tobacco control laws," the release said.

Today, this group is one of the leading forces behind India's growing tobacco control movement that has resulted in bans of smokeless tobacco products in 23 of India's 28 states and five of seven union territories. It has also contributed to tobacco tax increases in 20 states.

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