Prevalence of Betel Chewing Among Males in Colombo and Polonnaruwa Districts

Abstract

Objectives To assess the prevalence of betel chewing among adult males in a rural and urban district in Sri Lanka and describe the demographic characteristics of betel chewers. Methods Betel use among 2684 males aged >18 years resident in a rural (Polonnaruwa) and urban (Colombo) district in Sri Lanka was assessed using multistage cluster sampling. Data on quantity and frequency of use was obtained using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Results Prevalence of betel chewing was 17.6% in the rural and 1.7% in the urban district. In the rural district prevalence was significantly associated with age (p<0.001). In both districts prevalence was lowest among males between 18-24 years of age (2.7%) and highest among those aged> 65 years (36%). In both districts prevalence was significantly associated with income (p<0.05). Prevalence was highest among those with a monthly income Rs. 25000 a month chewed betel. Conclusions There was a significant difference in prevalence of betel chewing between rural and urban areas. Betel chewing now remains mainly a habit of the elderly in rural areas.