Pattern of use, Contributing Factors and associated oral health problems among chewing Tobacco users in Urban Slum of Odisha

Abstract

Background: The overall smokeless tobacco users in India is 29.6% as per Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2). Chewing tobacco causes dependence and various health risk among the users. The purpose of this study was to assess the pattern, contributing factors and associated oral health problems related to chewing tobacco use among adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 adults residing in a selected urban area of Odisha. A convenient sampling technique was adopted and the data was collected using structured questionnaire, Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependence Scale for smokeless tobacco (FTND-ST) and observational checklist. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The mean age among chewing tobacco users was 41.01+10.75 with majority being males (82.3%) using chewing tobacco. The participants with no formal education (32.3%) and those who are self employed (59.2%) have a considerable percentage of using chewing tobacco. 56.2% of participants were mild to moderately dependent on chewing tobacco whereas 43.8% of the adults were severely dependent. About 36% of participants were influenced by peer group for using chewing tobacco. The associated oral health issues among users include bad breath (50%), tooth discoloration (90.8%), dental caries (53.1%), build-up of plaque and tartar over teeth (77.7%) and adverse effect on gum (37.7%) which includes pain on gums, swelling and redness. About 7% of users took their last dip of chewing tobacco within 5 minutes before going to bed. There is significant association among participants who consume chewing tobacco on daily basis with oral health problems like plaque and tartar on teeth, blackish gum discoloration and spontaneous gum bleeding. Conclusion: The present study signifies the need of lifestyle hygiene and the importance of self- motivation and medical attention for quitting chewing tobacco.