Dr Garima Bhatt is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of York and a public health professional focused on tobacco control and non-communicable diseases. As an active member of The Union, she is closely involved in our tobacco control work and currently serves as Conference Programme Lead for the Tobacco Control Section, helping shape the scientific programme on tobacco control at the Union World Conference on Lung Health.
What is your role within the Tobacco Control Section and what does it entail?
My engagement with the section began as a member of The Union, as my professional work focuses on tobacco control research and policy within the broader field of global health. Over time, I became more actively involved and was elected as the Scientific Liaison Officer before transitioning into my current role as Conference Programme Lead for the Tobacco Control Section.
In this role, I contribute to shaping the scientific programme for the Union World Conference on Lung Health. Throughout the year, we collaborate in programme meetings to identify emerging research, key policy priorities, and pressing issues in tobacco control within the global health landscape.
The conference brings together researchers, policymakers, civil society organisations, and advocates from across the global health community. Contributing to the discussions that shape this platform and ensuring diverse regions and perspectives are reflected in the programme is both exciting and deeply rewarding.
What inspired you to become a public health expert, with a focus on tobacco and non-communicable disease (NCD) control?
My interest in tobacco control and NCDs grew from a simple but powerful realisation: tobacco use affects far more than the individual who consumes it. It impacts families, communities, health systems, and even the environment. Also, it’s a risk factor for many diseases as well.
Working in a region (South-East Asia) with one of the highest burdens of tobacco use has made this especially visible. Tobacco is not only a leading cause of preventable disease and premature mortality, but is also closely linked to wider social and health inequalities.
What inspires me about working in tobacco control within the broader field of global health is that we already know many of the solutions. Evidence-based policies such as taxation, smoke-free environments, cessation support and advertising restrictions can protect millions of people. Being able to contribute to research and policy that can influence population health outcomes is what continues to motivate my journey in public health.
The International Women's Day 2026 theme 'Give to Gain' is encouraging a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
How has the support of others influenced your career?
Public health, and global health in particular, is built on collaboration. Throughout my career so far, the support of colleagues, mentors, supervisors, and leaders has played a defining role in shaping my path. Working in global health means constantly engaging with people from different disciplines, institutions, and regions. Many of the opportunities I have had, whether through research collaborations, academic discussions, or mentorship, have come from this culture of shared learning and support.
Experiencing this collaborative environment has strongly influenced how I approach my own work. I try to extend the same openness and encouragement to junior colleagues and aspiring public health professionals. In many ways, that reflects the spirit of “Give to Gain”. When we support and invest in others, the impact spreads far beyond our own work.
How are you giving to the next generation of public health experts?
Supporting the next generation of public health professionals is an important part of strengthening the future of global health. I try to do this by sharing knowledge, encouraging early-career researchers, and engaging with students and colleagues who are exploring the field of public health, particularly tobacco control and NCDs.
Whether through academic collaborations, mentoring conversations, or working alongside junior colleagues, I believe that creating supportive environments for learning and dialogue is essential.
I have personally benefited from the generosity and guidance of many people throughout my career. Passing that forward by encouraging curiosity, confidence, and collaboration is one way I hope to contribute to the next generation of global health professionals.
What advice would you give women who are at the beginning of their career in public health?
Public health is a dynamic and constantly evolving field, and that is one of the things that makes working in global health both challenging and rewarding. For women starting their careers, my advice would be to remain curious, open to learning, and willing to embrace challenges. Early in your career, exploring different areas of public health can help you discover where your interests and strengths lie. In addition, alongside building technical knowledge, it is equally important to develop soft skills. Learn from diverse perspectives and trust in the value of your voice.