A Study on Prevalence and Pattern of Tobacco Usage among Adults in Manikeshwari, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Tobacco use in India is a significant public health challenge, contributing to high morbidity and mortality. Despite strict regulations, widespread cultural acceptance and accessibility continue to drive its prevalence across diverse population groups. The objective is to estimate prevalence of tobacco, its usage patterns, and their socio-demographic associations among adults in Manikeshwari, Kalaburagi.” Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for 2 months among adults residing in Manikeshwari using a pre-tested questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews. The sample size of 350 was calculated based on a 33.5% prevalence in Kalaburagi, with participants selected through cluster sampling. Data from 310 participants were analyzed for completeness using Jamovi software. Results: Among 310 participants, 41.9% had used tobacco at least once, with 29.7% currently using it. Most smokers (54.9%) commenced between 20 and 30, whereas 23.6% started earlier. 47.6% of users had been consuming tobacco for less than 10 years. Smokeless tobacco was utilized by 63% of the participants. With addiction as the main hurdle (48.9%), only 13.9% of current users are willing to quit. Smoking was found to be associated with gender (p-value: <0.001), religion (p-value: 0.02), marital status(p-value:<0.03), education(p-value:<0.001), and occupation(p-value:<0.001). Conclusion: The study shows high tobacco use, mainly smokeless forms, starting in early adulthood, influenced by demographic and socio-cultural factors. Targeted interventions and stricter enforcement of sales bans and no-tobacco zone regulations are recommended.