Publication:

Prevalence and pattern of tobacco use among auto rickshaw drivers of South Delhi: a cross-sectional study

Background Tobacco is one of the major preventable causes of death and disability worldwide. Tobacco related diseases are a burgeoning public health problem. The pattern of tobacco consumption in India is unique as varied smoked and smokeless products are consumed.

Methods Descriptive, cross-sectional study.

Results 69% of the auto-rickshaw drivers are currently using tobacco in one form or the other. Use of multiple tobacco products is also quite high; 54% of tobacco users consumed both smoked as well as smokeless forms of tobacco. Bidi smoking is the most common form of tobacco consumption among current users.

Conclusions Tobacco consumption among auto rickshaw drivers is high. The use of multiple products puts them at risk for problems related to both smoked and smokeless tobacco products. Support/services to quit tobacco should be targeted at their workplace as stress and free time during working hours have been cited as main reasons for tobacco consumption.