The Government of India released the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2022-23 (HCE Survey) which has revealed some shocking details that highlight the health burden of India. According to the survey, the people of India spent a bigger portion of their income on the consumption of paan, tobacco and other intoxicants in the last 10 years. The survey saw this increase across rural as well as urban households.
The HCE Survey was released last week and showed how the total expenditure on these items increased to 3.79% in 2022-23 in rural areas from 3.21% in 2011-12. On the other hand, the urban population saw a growth from 1.61% in 2011-12 to 2.43% in 2022-23. The survey was conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation from August 2022 to July 2023.
These statistics reveal a shocking fact about the dire health consequences of indulging in these habits. From oral health issues to life-threatening diseases, the spectrum of diseases caused by excessive consumption of paan, tobacco, and intoxicants is alarming. Here are the various health risks associated with these habits.
Oral Health Issues
All of us have seen the gruesome images of corroded mouths during anti-tobacco ads and on cigarette boxes. These are the prime concerns regarding oral health for chronic paan chewers and tobacco smokers:
Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Tobacco and paan contain substances that irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and eventually gum disease, resulting in gingivitis and periodontitis, revealed a study published in the Iranian Journal of Pathology.
Oral Cancer: Tobacco, especially when combined with areca nut and slaked lime in paan, increases the risk of oral cancer significantly, according to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service. The habit of keeping tobacco in the mouth for extended periods exposes the oral tissues to carcinogenic substances, increasing the likelihood of developing cancerous lesions.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Johns Hopkins Medicine shared that one out of every five smoking-related deaths is caused by heart disease. Here’s how paan, tobacco, and intoxicants affect the heart:
Hypertension: Nicotine in tobacco raises blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular complications.
Atherosclerosis: Tobacco use accelerates the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which can ultimately result in heart attacks and strokes.
Also Read: Watch Out! Tobacco Consumption Can Cause These Chronic Gum Diseases
Respiratory Disorders
All of us are aware that the biggest and most visible impact of tobacco is on the lungs. Here’s how paan and tobacco contribute to respiratory diseases:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Smoking tobacco is a primary cause of COPD, characterised by chronic bronchitis and emphysema, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced lung function.
Lung Cancer: Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogens that can cause mutations in lung cells, leading to the development of lung cancer.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Chewing paan, smoking cigarettes, and indulging in intoxicants also impact the gastrointestinal region of the body. Here are some diseases that may be caused:
Peptic Ulcers: Researchers from the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology found that the combination of tobacco and paan can increase stomach acidity, leading to the development of peptic ulcers, which can cause pain, bleeding, and complications like perforation or obstruction.
Oesophageal Cancer: Tobacco and areca nuts in paan are associated with an increased risk of oesophagal cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Reproductive Health Complications
These dangerous substances leave a negative impact on all facets of your body, even the reproductive system. Here’s how paan, tobacco, and intoxicants can damage your reproductive health:
Infertility: Tobacco use has been linked to decreased fertility in both men and women, affecting sperm quality, ovulation, and overall reproductive health.
Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women who use tobacco or consume paan are at higher risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage.
Addiction and Mental Health Issues
Paan, tobacco, and intoxicants are also highly addictive and hence increase the likelihood of the health disorders we discussed. Here’s how these substances damage your mental health:
Nicotine Addiction: Tobacco contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can lead to dependence, making it challenging to quit the habit.
Depression and Anxiety: Chronic tobacco and paan use have been linked to an increased risk of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Also Read: Newspaper Used To Pack Street Food Is Slowly Poisoning All Indians: FSSAI Issues Warning
The allure of paan and tobacco may be strong, and deeply rooted in tradition and culture, but the health risks associated with their consumption are undeniable. Breaking free from these habits may be challenging, but the benefits of a tobacco-free life are immeasurable, offering improved health, longevity, and overall quality of life. The increased spending on paan, tobacco, and intoxicants as highlighted by the HCE Survey shows how essential it is to raise awareness about the harmful effects of paan and tobacco and promote cessation efforts to safeguard public health and well-being.