Tobacco Use Pattern and Socio-Demographic Insights Among Transgenders in Chhattisgarh- A Cross-sectional study

Author : Dr. Poonam Narang, Dr. Milind Wasnik, Dr. Ramakrishna Chevvuri

Abstract : Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of tobacco use among transgender individuals in Chhattisgarh. It also evaluated the age of initiation, nicotine dependence, awareness of tobacco-related health risks, quit attempts, willingness to quit, and barriers to accessing dental healthcare services. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among transgender individuals across different administrative divisions of Chhattisgarh using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), which included socio-demographic details and assessed tobacco use patterns, awareness, and cessation behaviour. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A high prevalence of tobacco use was observed, with 91.3% of participants using smokeless tobacco and 49.4% being current smokers. Gutkha (91.3%) and khaini (50.0%) were the most commonly used products. The mean age of initiation was 21.1 ± 4.5 years for smokeless tobacco users and 22.5 ± 4.8 years for smokers. Nearly 44.4% of participants used tobacco within 30 minutes of waking, indicating nicotine dependence. Awareness of harmful effects was reported by 64.0%. Quit attempts were noted in 39.2% of smokers and 32.8% of smokeless tobacco users. Dental service utilisation was low, with barriers including financial constraints, lack of awareness, fear, and stigma. Conclusion: Transgender individuals in Chhattisgarh exhibit a substantial burden of tobacco use and oral health problems. Targeted cessation programmes and culturally competent healthcare services are essential to reduce health disparities.

Keywords : Transgender, Tobacco use, Smokeless tobacco, Oral health.

Conference Name : International Conference on Global Public Health and Disease Control (ICGPHDC-26)

Conference Place : Delhi, India

Conference Date : 25th Apr 2026