Nova IVF Fertility, Siliguri marked World No Tobacco Day with a large-scale walkathon to raise awareness about the negative impact of tobacco on fertility. The event saw participation from over 100 local residents, doctors, and staff members. Chief Guests included Shri Goutam Deb, Mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, and Shri Ravindra Jain, a noted social worker. According to Nova IVF experts, 50–60% of individuals facing infertility—mainly men from rural, agricultural, and tea garden communities—are regular users of tobacco in forms like gutkha, khaini, hookah, and cigarettes. Alarming trends are also emerging among women and urban youth, particularly in hilly regions, with 5–10% of female patients reporting tobacco use.
Dr. Satabdi Dey, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility Siliguri said, “Tobacco consumption in any form can harm the quality of eggs and sperm. In women, it can stop the ovaries from functioning properly, and in men, it can lead to lower sperm count and poor sperm quality. There is also the issue of passive smoking where even nonsmokers are being exposed. This can make it difficult to conceive, and in some cases, lead to repeated miscarriages also”
Dr. Yamini Agarwal, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Siliguri, added, “There is a need for early education in schools about the dangers of smoking and tobacco. Hookah, smoking and vaping may look fashionable to youngsters, but it damages health, especially reproductive health in the long run. We also observe that couples hesitate to consult a fertility specialist when they are having trouble conceiving. Still there is lack of awareness and shame associated with infertility. Infertility is a medical condition just like Diabetes and needs medical consultation with a fertility specialist. Siliguri, serving as a gateway to North Bengal and the Northeast, has witnessed growing demand for fertility services. Surrounded by high tobacco-use zones, including tea estates and rural belts, Siliguri is strategically positioned for Nova IVF’s expansion in reproductive healthcare.
