Study Outlines Tobacco Use In Pregnant, Lactating Indian Women

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is more commonly used than smoked tobacco (ST) among pregnant and lactating women in India, according to a recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal. While the use of SLT has been steadily declining in recent years, it remains prevalent in this demographic.

The study, conducted by researchers from the Dr BR Ambedkar State Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) in Punjab and other institutes, analyzed data from the Fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). Among the 724,115 women interviewed in the survey, 2.5 per cent of currently pregnant women and 3.2 per cent of currently married lactating women were found to be using tobacco in some form.

Among the currently pregnant women, 28,408 were identified, of whom 616 used smokeless tobacco, 95 used smoked tobacco, and 8 used both forms of tobacco. Among the currently married lactating women, 105,482 were identified, with 2.8 per cent using smokeless tobacco, 0.4 per cent using smoked tobacco, and 0.04 per cent using both forms.

The majority, 85.6 per cent, of tobacco users in this demographic were found to use smokeless forms of tobacco. The researchers noted that the relative popularity of SLT can be attributed to its affordability, widespread availability, and social acceptability.

The study also revealed regional variations in tobacco use. Respondents from the poorest wealth quintile were more likely to use SLT. Pregnant women in central Indian regions were more likely to consume smoked tobacco and combined tobacco, while those in the south were more likely to use SLT. These regional disparities may be influenced by cultural factors and differences in the implementation of tobacco control policies across the country.

Traditionally, tobacco use during pregnancy has often been associated with seeking relief from various discomforts, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and cold and influenza.

The study found that smokeless tobacco use was 19.4 per cent less likely in rural areas compared to urban areas among tobacco-using lactating women. Additionally, women who consumed alcohol during pregnancy or lactation were more likely to use tobacco.

The results highlight inequalities related to social determinants and emphasize the importance of understanding the root causes of tobacco use among Indian women, particularly during pregnancy and lactation. The researchers recommend the development of innovative health promotion and communication strategies, including media campaigns, to raise awareness about the dangers of all forms of tobacco use within this vulnerable section of society. These efforts aim to reduce tobacco initiation and improve the overall health of pregnant and lactating women in India.