Availability and use of Naswar: An exploratory study

Abstract

Background Naswar is a niche smokeless tobacco product from Pakistan. There is little information about its availability and user characteristics. Methods This cross-sectional survey identified outlets selling Naswar in two wards of one London borough and interviewed a purposively recruited sample of 73 Naswar purchasers. Data were analysed using descriptive and chi-square tests (significance, P≤ 0.05). Results Of 65 outlets identified 15 sold Naswar. The purchasers' mean (SD) age was 32 (±10) years and 63 had completed only secondary education. Naswar consumption was significantly associated with tobacco dependency, whilst starting Naswar use at a younger age, having lower education levels, using Naswar more frequently and being of Pakhtunkhwa origin was associated with high monthly consumption (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions Naswar was widely available. Naswar purchasers of Pakistani origin were employed and young, but with limited education and little knowledge of Naswars health impacts. Naswar dependency and consumption was linked to behavioural and socio-demographic factors. Further evidence is needed to support policy development. © 2012 The Author.