New estimates have been released regarding the risk of tobacco-related cancers in India. These estimates indicate that the incidence of cancers caused by tobacco use varies by region and gender.
Among men, smokeless tobacco accounts for 57.3 percent of mouth cancers, showing the impact of this form of tobacco consumption.
For women, an estimated 73.4 percent of mouth cancers are attributed to tobacco in any form, indicating the widespread risk among female users.
While fewer Indians reported using tobacco in the last five years, more Indian households are reporting purchasing tobacco compared to a decade ago.
The report specifically notes an increase in household purchases of gutkha, suggesting a shift in consumption patterns that requires targeted intervention.
New research estimates that a large proportion of head and neck cancers could be prevented by eliminating tobacco exposure. Differences were observed across states, sexes, and specific tobacco products.