Smoking cessation in India: A narrative review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Respiratory Medicine
• Tobacco Control

Background:

• Tobacco use is a leading global cause of preventable death, with India being the second-largest consumer.
• Smoking is linked to severe respiratory conditions like COPD, asthma, pneumonia, and lung cancer.
• Smoking cessation is the sole intervention proven to mitigate lung function decline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review smoking practices and cessation services in India.
• To identify gaps in current smoking cessation support.
• To inform future interventions aimed at improving tobacco cessation in India.

Main Methods:

• This study employed a narrative review approach.
• Literature search focused on smoking habits and cessation strategies within the Indian context.
• Analysis aimed to understand the landscape of available resources and physician involvement.

Main Results:

• Smoking cessation services in India face limitations due to time constraints, low awareness, and resource scarcity.
• Respiratory physicians are pivotal in guiding, motivating, and supporting patients who wish to quit smoking.
• Increased physician commitment, including time and effort, is essential for successful smoking cessation outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing smoking cessation services in India requires addressing resource limitations and physician engagement.
• Respiratory physicians are key facilitators in the smoking cessation journey.
• Future interventions should focus on strengthening support systems and physician dedication to combat the tobacco epidemic in India.