BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is a significant health risk, particularly in rural regions where socio-cultural factors heavily influence tobacco use patterns. In West Tripura district, tobacco use among women remains understudied, despite its serious health consequences. This study aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and health consequences of tobacco use among rural women in West Tripura.
METHODS: The total sample administered to 200 women aged 18-65 years from three locations- Agartala Municipal Corporation (n=60), Dukli block (n=70), and Old Agartala block (n=70). A stratified random sampling method was used to ensure adequate representation from each area. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, tobacco consumption patterns, and associated health consequences to assess factors associated with tobacco use.
RESULTS: The overall prevalence of tobacco use among women in the study was 42%, with significant variation between the areas. Tobacco use was highest in the rural blocks of Dukli (54%) and Old Agartala (50%), compared to the urban area of Agartala Municipal Corporation (25%). The most commonly used form of tobacco was smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco), reported by 65% of users. Socio-demographic factors such as lower educational levels (OR=2.5, 95% CI: 1.6–3.9) and lower household income (OR=2.2, 95% CI: 1.3–3.7) were significantly associated with higher tobacco use. Health consequences included chronic respiratory issues (32%), gum disease (28%), and an increased incidence of oral cancer (11%) among tobacco users. Additionally, 57% of tobacco users reported a deterioration in their overall health.
CONCLUSIONS: Tobacco use among rural women in West Tripura is alarmingly high, particularly in rural blocks like Dukli and Old Agartala. There is an urgent need for targeted public health interventions, including tobacco cessation programs and awareness campaigns for rural women in Tripura. Comprehensive policies addressing both the prevention and treatment of tobacco-related diseases are essential for improving women's health in these communities.