Knowledge attitude and practices study regarding tobacco use among rural population

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Original Article

Author Details : Devika P. Jeeragyal, Sharavanan. E Udayar, Sasidhar M., K. R. John

Volume : 4, Issue : 4, Year : 2017

Article Page : 164-169

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Abstract

Introduction: It was introduced into India by Portuguese. The great Sikh Guru Gobind Singh said, “Wine is bad, Indian hemp (bhang) destroys one generation but tobacco destroys all generations”. Tobacco consumption is a major public health issue and is the major risk factor for six leading causes of death. Most of deaths occur in 35- 69 years age group which is economically productive, due to tobacco use and an average loss of 20-25 years of life. Tobacco use has high impact on growing economy and high expenditure on health. So many cultural practices, beliefs attitudes are contributing to its usage.
Aims and Objectives: The study was done with the objective of assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices of tobacco usage among rural population at Kuppam field practice area, A.P.
Materials and Methods: KAP study was done at field practice area of Kuppam in A.P.
Result: Total 1500 individuals above 15yrs were studied. The overall prevalence of tobacco use among the subjects was 61.3%. The prevalence of smoking, chewing and snuff use was 19.5%, 56.6% and 2.7% respectively. sociodemographic factors, cultural factors, misconception that tobacco releases the tension, worry, helps to overcome the appetite, thirst ect are contributing to tobacco consumption. Their belief, attitude and practices are very much deep routed in this rural area. They believe that tobacco consumption is not a bad and it is accepted by society compare to alcohol intake.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Misconception, Awareness, Prevention.

How to cite : Jeeragyal D P, Udayar S E, Sasidhar M., John K R, Knowledge attitude and practices study regarding tobacco use among rural population. J Community Health Manag 2017;4(4):164-169

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