Life within: Unraveling the patterns and correlates of smokeless tobacco use in pregnant women across India.

OBJECTIVES

Tobacco use during pregnancy is of significant concern as it is associated with adverse outcomes in expecting mothers and their fetuses. Smokeless tobacco use is widespread among women in India. However, there is a dearth of studies on smokeless tobacco use and its determinants during pregnancy in India. The study examines the prevalence and predictors of smokeless tobacco use, quit attempts, advice from healthcare providers to quit, and intentions to quit among pregnant women in India.

STUDY DESIGN

The study utilizes the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) 2 (2016-17) India data. GATS 2 was conducted in all 30 states and two union territories. GATS is a nationally representative household survey of individuals aged 15 years or above. A multistage sampling procedure was conducted separately for urban and rural areas.

METHODS

The sample size for the study was 1403 currently pregnant women at the time of the survey. Bivariate analysis, multivariable regression, Chi-square test, and phi coefficient were utilized.

RESULTS

Smokeless tobacco use was reported by 7.4 % of pregnant women, highest among older age groups, Scheduled Tribes, poorer households, and North-Eastern and EAG states. About 64.4 % visited a healthcare provider, but only 23.7 % were asked about tobacco use, and 20.2 % were advised to quit. Quit attempts were made by 43.6 %, and only 20 % planned to quit within 12 months. Age, caste, education, occupation, and state of residence were statistically significant predictors of tobacco use, but not knowledge of the ill effects of smokeless tobacco use.

CONCLUSIONS

Addressing Smokeless tobacco use among pregnant women in India requires a multifaceted approach combining targeted interventions, strengthened healthcare provider support, health education campaigns, and evidence-based policies. Health education and awareness campaigns should disseminate accurate and comprehensive information about the risks of smokeless tobacco use during pregnancy on mother and child.