Researchers warned SLT use during pregnancy significantly increases the risks of preterm births, stillbirths, low birth weight, and small-for-gestational-age babies.
Bhubaneshwar: A recent study by the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC), Bhubaneswar, under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has raised alarm over the high prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use among pregnant and lactating women in urban slums. The study found that 45% of pregnant women and 55% of lactating mothers consumed SLT immediately after waking up.
Risks of SLT during Pregnancy
Researchers warned that SLT use during pregnancy significantly increases the risks of preterm births, stillbirths, low birth weight, and small-for-gestational-age babies.
The study, led by senior scientists Dr. Subhendu Kumar Acharya and Dr. Anna Salomi Kerketta, surveyed women aged 18–49 years in the slums and revealed that 52.5% began using SLT in adolescence, with the average age of initiation as early as 14.95 years among pregnant women and 12.58 years among lactating mothers.
Key Reason behind SLT
Key drivers included peer and family influence, stress relief, cravings during pregnancy, curiosity, and cultural beliefs. Many women in slums, say morning sickness, nausea, gastric problems, headaches, and toothaches were often cited as triggers. Homemade variants wrongly considered safer than packaged products. Besides, women perceived SLT as giving them energy or motivation to complete household chores and physical labour.
Unlike smoking, which faces social stigma, SLT remains culturally embedded and socially acceptable in many communities. In India, over 80% of female tobacco users rely on smokeless forms like paan, khaini, and gutkha, making the habit a “hidden epidemic.”
Under-Recognised Public Health Threat
The study highlights the long-term health consequences and intergenerational harm caused by SLT, calling it an under-recognised public health threat. Researchers recommend routine screening and counselling of women for awareness.
According to the study, initiation often begins in adolescence, reinforced by social norms, stress, and misconceptions, and continues into critical phases of life such as pregnancy and lactation.
“Only community-centred approaches that challenge myths, empower women, and offer healthier alternatives can break this cycle and reduce SLT addiction among vulnerable groups,” the study concludes.
, Bhubaneswar, under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has raised alarm over the high prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use among pregnant and lactating women in urban slums. The study found that 45% of pregnant women and 55% of lactating mothers consumed SLT immediately after waking up.){kind=link}