Sociodemographic Correlates of Tobacco Consumption in Rural Gujarat, India

Abstract EN

Background.

The purpose of this study was to examine occupation-, education-, and gender-specific patterns of tobacco use and knowledge of its health effects among 23,953 rural Asian Indians ≥18 years in Gujarat.

Methodology.

A statewide, community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in 26 districts of Gujarat (December 2010–May 2015), using face-to-face interviews by trained community health workers called SEVAKS.

Results.

Mean age was 39.8 ± 15.2 years.

Eighteen percent of respondents used tobacco in various forms.

Tobacco consumption was significantly higher among males (32%), 18–34 years’ age group (35%), those who were self-employed (72%), and those with elementary education (40%).

The prevalence was 11 times higher among males than females (95% CI = 9.78, 13.13).

Adjusted ORs for tobacco use showed strong gradient by age and educational level; consumption was lower among the illiterates and higher for older participants (≥55 years).

Tobacco consumption also varied by occupation; that is, those who were self-employed and employed for wages were more likely to use tobacco than those who were unemployed.

Knowledge of health effects of tobacco lowered the odds of consumption by 30–40%.

Conclusions.

Effective educational programs should be tailored by gender, to improve knowledge of health risks and dispel myths on perceived benefits of tobacco.