Prevalence, patterns and determinants of smoking among migrant workers in Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

Background: Rapid urbanization and industrialization is leading a massive exodus of migrant workers from rural to urban areas and from one state to another in search of green pastures. The migrant workers living in unsafe environments, working in hazardous conditions and in absence of family/friends makes them vulnerable to indulge in substance abuse. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence and patterns of smoking in the migrant workers in Jammu region of J and K, India.Methods: All the migrant workers visiting the OPD of Medicine/ Surgery in Government Medical College, Jammu due to any reason were registered. Only those who gave positive history of smoking were interviewed through a questionnaire survey. Data on demographics and details regarding tobacco use were collected.Results: The prevalence of tobacco use was found to be 43.13%. Pattern of tobacco use was found to be significant in relation to the sex of the respondents (p<0.05). Among other variables associated with smoking, monthly income and literacy levels of the migrant workers were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05).Conclusions: The prevalence and patterns observed in the present study needs to further elucidate the role of various risk factors among the migrant workers. These risk factors can be targeted for health promotion as well as intervention for the amelioration of the current smokers.