Spit Tobacco Use Among College Students—A Changing Scenario in India

Abstract

ISEE-832 Objective: Teenagers, especially students in this state are increasingly getting addicted to tobacco products, especially spit tobacco. Some take to it despite knowing its harmful effects. The government may not be in a position to take every righteous step for our children. The government should cancel the license of shops that sell tobacco products. The warning “selling tobacco products to those below 18 years is punishable” is displayed at shops. However, these serve as indirect advertisement that tobacco products are available there. No agency is deployed to ensure that tobacco products are not sold to those below 18 years. This study was conducted to determine the tobacco habit among college students. Materials and Methods: A total of 1800 college students participated in the study. Results: About 23% of the students were with the habit of using spit tobacco. Only 12% were with the habit of using both spit tobacco and smoking tobacco. Most of them developed this habit at the age of 14 years itself. This is, to a large extent, because of peer pressure, desire to seem fashionable, and also the influence of their role models. None of their parents or relatives was aware of this habit. Conclusions: The role of teacher and parents in society is very crucial in this regard. They need to inculcate sincerity, morality, and other values in children. Parent-Teachers Association should play a proactive role in combating the menace by warning shopkeepers against selling tobacco products in the school or college premises.