Effect of Tobacco Use during Pregnancy on Fetal Birth Weight Born to Women between 18-35 years in Thatta District

Abstract

Background: Consumption of tobacco in its various forms is widespread and a serious public health issue globally. Although smoking is the predominant common method of tobacco use, the consumption of smokeless tobacco has increased in recent decades. Smokeless tobacco products are becoming more popular among women. In Pakistan, the overall prevalence of smokeless tobacco among males and females is 7%, out of which 10% are women which may be linked to poor reproductive outcomes and other health issues. Objective: The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of smokeless tobacco use during pregnancy on fetal birth weight. Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the five basic health units (BHU) of Thatta District, which were Garho, Ghora Bari, Dhabeji, Chattochand, and Jhimpeer from October 2022 – January 2023. A total of 300 mothers were included by consecutive sampling technique in the study and among them, 150 mothers who gave birth to a low-birth-weight baby i.e., birth weight < 2.5 kg were enrolled as a case, and another 150 mothers who gave birth to a normal birth weight baby i.e., birth weight ≥ 2.5 kg were enrolled as a control. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews utilizing a validated questionnaire, with strict adherence to ethical considerations throughout the study. Results: In a study of 300 participants from Thatta District's five basic healthcare units, multivariate logistic regression revealed significant factors influencing tobacco use during pregnancy. Housewives had 1.862 times higher odds of tobacco use than employed individuals, and individuals aged 20–35 had 1.802 times higher odds than those aged 36-50. Smokeless tobacco, particularly most of the mothers in this study used gutka (47.3%) and chaliya (26%). Smokeless tobacco Gutka and Chaliya, increased the likelihood of tobacco use during pregnancy. Considering the frequency of smokeless tobacco use and healthcare provider recommendations emerged as important determinants. Conclusion: Our study underscores the prevalence of smokeless tobacco use during pregnancy in Thatta, Karachi, Pakistan, with significant implications for low-birth-weight babies. This highlights the need for targeted public health interventions, like antenatal care, alongside further research to inform evidence-based strategies for maternal and child health promotion in the region.