Globally, around 1.3 billion individuals use tobacco, with approximately 80% residing in low- and middle-income countries. This widespread consumption has severe health repercussions, leading to 8 million deaths annually. The primary causes of these deaths are respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancers, and cardiovascular diseases. The burden of tobacco-related diseases highlights the urgent need for effective tobacco control measures, especially in regions where healthcare resources are limited.
Tobacco Use in India: Forms and Prevalence
In India, tobacco consumption is diverse, encompassing both smoking and smokeless forms. According to Dr Shyam Aggarwal, Chairman of Medical Oncology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, cigarettes are the most common form of tobacco use among the youth, followed by bidis. Nationally, smokeless tobacco products like khaini and smoking forms such as bidis dominate. The prevalence and consequences of tobacco use in India are significant, particularly the increased risk of cancers in the oral cavity and esophagus due to chewing tobacco. This also leads to other oro-dental diseases, exacerbating the public health crisis.
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The Economic Burden of Tobacco Use
The Indian National Mental Health Survey reveals a high prevalence of tobacco use disorder, affecting about 20.89% of the population. This widespread addiction imposes a considerable economic burden on the country, reflected in both healthcare costs and reduced productivity. In 2019, tobacco use contributed to 7.25% of the total disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in India. These statistics underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to curb tobacco use and mitigate its economic impact.
Youth and Tobacco: A Growing Concern
Young adults are particularly vulnerable to engaging in risky behaviors, including tobacco use. Factors such as family conflicts, academic stress, and peer pressure significantly contribute to this trend. In 2019, the global population of young people aged 15–24 years was about 1.2 billion, with India's youth population (aged 15–29 years) constituting 27.5% of the total population. Among Indians aged 15 and older, the prevalence of tobacco use was 28.6%, involving 267 million adults. Among males aged 15 and older, the prevalence was 27.1% in 2019–2020. Notably, there is an increasing trend among young females, with prevalence rates rising from 4.2% to 8.5% in recent years.
The Rise of Electronic Cigarettes
While the global trend indicates increasing use of electronic cigarettes among youth, India presents a contrasting scenario. Knowledge of electronic cigarettes among Indian youth is limited; only 4.4% had heard of or seen them, and usage remains minimal. This is in stark contrast to global pThe rising prevalence of smoking among youth in India aligns with findings from other studies both domestically and internationally.atterns, which have led to a surge in e-cigarette use among young people, prompting India to implement a recent ban on e-cigarettes.
Health Risks Associated with Tobacco Use in Youth
According to Dr Aggarwal, tobacco use among youth heightens the risk of dependence on nicotine and other substances. This dependency can lead to a range of mental and behavioral health issues, including depression and anxiety. The addictive nature of nicotine makes it challenging for young users to quit, thereby increasing their vulnerability to long-term health problems.
Gender Differences in Tobacco Use
Gender is a significant predictor of tobacco use, with males more likely to use tobacco than females. However, certain regions in India, such as Goa and the North-Eastern States, report nearly equal prevalence among genders. This pattern is similar to those observed in Western countries, indicating cultural and regional differences in tobacco use behaviours.
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Preventive Strategies and Interventions
To combat the rising prevalence of tobacco use among youth, Dr Aggarwal emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies. These include behavioral modification programs, withdrawal clinics, and community-level initiatives such as anti-tobacco campaigns. Additionally, restricting access to tobacco products for minors is crucial. Implementing these strategies can help reduce the initiation and continuation of tobacco use among young people.
The rising prevalence of smoking among youth in India aligns with findings from other studies both domestically and internationally. The significant health and economic burdens associated with tobacco use necessitate comprehensive and multi-faceted approaches to prevention and intervention. By addressing the unique challenges posed by tobacco use in India, particularly among youth, the country can make substantial progress in improving public health outcomes and reducing the long-term impact of tobacco-related diseases.