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OMU Science Café explores multidimensional approaches to combating addiction
Tolga Nurdan Gürbüz 07 March 2026, Saturday - 16:12 Updated: 17 March 2026, Tuesday - 16:12
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Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) addressed the individual and societal dimensions of combating addiction at the “Science Café” event organized within the scope of 1–7 March Green Crescent Week.

SAMSUN – The event titled “Multidimensional Approaches to Combating Addiction for a Healthy Life,” organized in cooperation with the OMU Science Communication Office and the Center for Combating Addiction Application and Research, was held at the Faculty of Health Sciences Conference Hall. The program, attended by Center Director Assist. Prof. Dr. Alaattin Altın, Yeşilay Samsun Branch Manager Emre Güneş, and Samsun Police Department Narcotics Branch expert Hasan Arslan, addressed the medical, social, and security dimensions of addiction in a comprehensive manner. Narcotics detection dog Hektor, which attracted significant attention in the hall, also demonstrated the practical aspects of his duties.

The Science Café, which drew strong interest from students who will soon join the healthcare workforce, was also attended by Vice Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Assist. Prof. Dr. Seval Ağaçdiken Alkan, as well as academics from the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Vocational School of Health Services.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Altın: “Addiction is not a moral issue, but a brain disease”

Assist. Prof. Dr. Alaattin Altın stated, “Addiction is not a moral issue, but a brain disease. The brain’s reward system and dopamine release draw individuals into the cycle of addiction. The two main factors that distinguish addiction from habit are tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. In many cases, the first trial, often justified by saying ‘nothing will happen from just once,’ triggers addiction. In combating addiction, addressing smoking is a critical starting point.”

Yeşilay Samsun Branch Manager Güneş: “This project aims to reach all segments of society”

In his speech, Yeşilay Samsun Branch Manager Emre Güneş emphasized that the Turkish Green Crescent Society was founded during the national struggle period and highlighted the importance of protecting young people from addictions for the country. He noted that awareness activities aimed at combating addiction will intensify in 2026. Güneş stated that in Samsun, Yeşilay conducts educational and preventive programs targeting various age groups, from kindergarten to high school. He also emphasized that young people are supported in developing healthy habits through sports, cultural, and social activities, underlining the importance of initiatives that aim to reach all segments of society.

Samsun Police Department Narcotics Branch police officer Hasan Arslan explained to students the dangers of addiction and the importance of being free individuals. Emphasizing that young people should take ownership of their life stories, Arslan noted that addiction affects not only individuals but also their families. He illustrated, with examples, how narcotic substances impact the brain and disrupt behavioral control. Arslan also shared his personal experiences with the students.

Within the scope of the program, students also had the opportunity to meet narcotics detection dog Hector. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session where participants’ questions were addressed.