Tobacco problem complex in India

Goverment of India and its role in Tobacco Control
Tobacco addiction is a global epidemic that is increasingly ravaging countries and regions that can least afford its toll of disability, disease, lost productivity and death. It has been recognized as the single biggest causes of preventable death and disability world wide. Every year millions of people die due to tobacco use. By 2030 it is expected to kill 10 million people per year, half of them in the age group of 35 to 60 years. Tobacco use is a growing concern, with statistics which reveal facts where one is compelled to understand and take cognizance of the fact to tackle the problem we need to develop a multi sectoral and integrated approach.

The tobacco problem in developing countries like India is more complex and difficult compared to other parts of the world. India is the second largest producer of tobacco worldwide and ranks fourth in total tobacco consumption. Tobacco and its use are not new to our culture. It is easily accessible and consumed in rural India in various forms - smoking, chewable and snuff - like cheaper cigarette versions like beedis, betel leaves, flavored powder (pan masala and gutka), hookah etc. and is closely related with rituals and social status. Families already grappling with scant resources are pushed further into extreme poverty due to spending on tobacco products or on treating tobacco-related diseases.

As studies reveal 5,500 adolescents start using tobacco every day in India joining the 4 million young people under the age of 15 who are regular tobacco users. India also sees a steady rise in deaths attributed to tobacco every year. From 1.4% of all deaths in 1990 the number is expected to rise to 13.3% in 2020.According to the WHO, India would have the highest rate of rise in tobacco related deaths during this period, compared to all other countries /regions.

The Indian government, the civil society and we as citizens need to urgently take proactive steps to combat this demon.