Pattern of Tobacco Use, Degree of Dependence and Level of Motivation to Quit among Tobacco Users

Tobacco use is currently ranked fourth in the world and contribute remarkably as cause of death. Global Adult Tobacco Survey (2010) reported that the prevalence of tobacco in India is 34.6% and 12% in Punjab. Dependence is higher in poor, less educated and minority population.

To assess the pattern of tobacco use, degree of dependence, level of motivation to quit among tobacco users working in selected factories of Ludhiana City, Punjab.

A descriptive study was conducted on 100 tobacco users working in selected factories of Ludhiana City, Punjab.

Convenience sampling technique was used to select the study sample. Data was collected by using socio-demographic profile, tobacco use profile, Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence and Richmond's Readiness to Change Scale.

Statistical analysis used: descriptive (mean, frequency, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (“t' test and ANOVA).

It was revealed that 72% of subjects used jarda and mean age of initiation was 19.36 years. The mean duration of regular use was found to be 8.33years. 59% subjects had moderate degree of dependence and 70% had moderate level of motivation to quit tobacco. Degree of dependence was found to be significantly associated with age and education.

It was concluded that jarda (72%) was the most used form of tobacco. Majority of tobacco users had moderate degree of dependence and moderate level of motivation to quit tobacco. Degree of dependence had positive correlation with number of years of tobacco use(p≤0.01).