Awareness of Ill Effects of Tobacco in Non Teaching Staff of Vasantdada Patil Dental College and Hospital Sangli – A Questionnaire based Study

Abstract

Introduction- Tobacco has been cultivated and utilized by humans for millennia, starting with its use in religious rituals and medicinal practices. India is the second largest producer and consumer of tobacco after China. Tobacco use is widespread, varying in both smoking and smokeless forms across different geographical regions of the country. Tobacco use is responsible for approximately 33% of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In India, tobacco- related cancers contributed to 27% of the nation's cancer burden in 2020.

Aim - The aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness and attitude towards the detrimental consequences of uses of tobacco among non-teaching staff of the institute.

Material and Method - A Marathi language designed questionnaire study was conducted in 70 non-teaching staff of the institute. Questionnaire was adapted from GLOBAL YOUTH TOBACCO SURVEY (GYTS 2016-17) questionnaire. The responses were analyzed.

Result – Results of the presented study suggested that 21.5 % (n = 15) subjects consumed any form of tobacco products. Despite being aware of the adverse effects of tobacco, 21.5% (n = 15) of subjects still consumed it. 82.8% of subjects would significantly recommend that someone with habit to quit the habit. Gutkha was the most common tobacco products, followed by Mawa/Khaini and Cigarettes /Bidis.

Conclusion – Presented study emphasizes the awareness of adverse effects of uses of tobacco product among non-teaching staff of institute and concluded that 21.5% subjects regularly   consumed the tobacco products. Gutkha was most common consumed tobacco product among Mawa/Khaini and cigarettes/bidis. 82.8% subjects would significantly recommend that someone with habit to quit the habit.