Tobacco use in Kurnool – A Perspective using Global Adult Tobacco Survey Questionnaire

Abstract

Background: Tobacco is a commonly used addictive substance which is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In India, tobacco is used in the form of smoking and smokeless tobacco. The diverse demographics of tobacco use, monitoring, raising awareness, and control policies are effective in halting the tobacco epidemic. In order to obtain these various data, the present study was undertaken with an aim to assess tobacco use among the people of Kurnool, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted which was a household interview-based survey. The study consists of demographic details such as age, education, occupation, and Global Adult Tobacco Survey questionnaire which consist of 20 questions on the usage and type of smoke and smokeless tobacco, second-hand smoke, cessation, anti-cigarette advertising, and economics. A total sample of 950 participants were included which was collected through cluster sampling method in Kurnool district. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Descriptive statistics including frequency and percentages were calculated. Results: The study comprised 656 (69.1%) males and 294 (30.9%) females. The prevalence of tobacco smokers and smokeless tobacco were 163 (17.2%) and 46 (4.8%), respectively. A greater percentage of subjects who smoke inside the home daily and weekly were observed among male subjects and 15–30 years of age group. Conclusion: The prevalence was high among tobacco smokers compared to smokeless tobacco users. Furthermore, tobacco usage in the form of smoking and smokeless tobacco, which made quit attempt were observed more among male subjects, 41–50 years of age group, illiterates, and unskilled workers.