Understanding the burden of smokeless tobacco use in rural India: patterns, motivations, and public health implications

BackgroundThe use of smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a major public health problem in India, particularly in rural areas, where it is accepted and easily accessible due to a lack of awareness. Despite government initiatives to control tobacco use, SLT is a cause of serious illness and death.AimThis study aims to evaluate the prevalence, patterns, and socio-demographic determinants of smokeless tobacco use in rural India using data from Longitudinal Survey on Addictive Influences (LSAI).Materials and methodsA cross-sectional analytical study was carried out using secondary data from the LSAI dataset. Rural participants aged ≥18 years were included. Age, gender, education, occupation, socioeconomic status, and the type and frequency of SLT usage were among the variables examined. Descriptive statistics were used to find prevalence and patterns, whereas chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were used to find the determinants associated with SLT use.ResultsAmong the rural population, the use of smokeless tobacco was found to be highly prevalent, with men using it much more frequently than women. The two most frequently consumed forms of SLT were Gutkha and Khaini. There were statistically significant associations between the use of SLT and age, gender, education, and socioeconomic status (p < 0.05). Individuals with lower levels of education and those who were manual laborers had a higher chance of using SLT. Early initiation and daily use patterns were common, indicating strong dependence.ConclusionIn rural India, the use of smokeless tobacco is still prevalent, and the main contributing factors are the inequalities in socioeconomic status and education. The use of SLT and the health risks associated with it should be decreased by public health interventions, which should include education and stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws.