Sociocultural Determinants of Tobacco Usage among the Tribal Population in Jharkhand, India: An Analysis of Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2016–2017

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Background: There is limited literature on tobacco use among tribal communities in Jharkhand, despite the state having a significant tribal population. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of current use of any form of tobacco (AFT) and identify associated sociocultural factors using nationally representative data. Methodology: Data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey-II were analyzed, including 488 tribal individuals aged over 15 years. Categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages. Modified Poisson regression was used to assess associations between sociodemographic and cultural factors with AFT use, reporting adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results: The overall prevalence of AFT use among the tribal population was 55.4%, with 18.5% smoking and 50.8% using smokeless tobacco. AFT use was significantly higher among those aged 45-64 years [aPR: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1-1.5], males [aPR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.7-2.6], unemployed individuals [aPR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1-2.2], and Hindus [aPR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.3-2.9]. Additionally, individuals with limited knowledge about the harmful effects of tobacco had a higher risk of use [aPR: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1-1.5]. Conclusion: Tobacco use remains high among the tribal population in Jharkhand. Sociocultural factors such as age, gender, religion, employment status, and knowledge gaps significantly influence usage. These findings highlight the need for culturally tailored interventions and awareness programs to curb tobacco use in this vulnerable group.