Prevalence of tobacco in Darbhanga district: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Chewing tobacco, smoking, and consumption of alcoholic beverages have become common social habits in India. No study has been conducted so far in this part of Bihar regarding the prevalence of tobacco. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use, its influences, triggers, and associated oral lesions.

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Patients who consume tobacco in any form were selected and were interviewed through a pretested structured questionnaire in relation to their tobacco habits, its influences, and triggers. In addition, clinical examination was carried out to check for any tobacco-related oral lesions.

The overall prevalence of tobacco use was 16.69%, out of which 14.48% were males and 2.21% were females. The most affected age group was from 19 to 50 years. 13.45% were below 18 years of age. 43.40% males and 77.42% females having the tobacco habit were illiterates. The majority of individuals were addicted due to peer pressure and friends, some acquired it, due to loneliness, stress, and for adapting themselves in the work place. Females frequently used smokeless for cleaning teeth. The most common oral mucosal lesion in both males (53.26%) and females (18.55%) was tobacco hyperkeratosis.

The present study reflects the high prevalence rates of tobacco use among various sections of society. Apart from mass against tobacco products, authorities should focus on strict enforcement of law and promote research for creating new and harmless replacement products.