0
0
New Delhi, May 31, 2024 — A remarkable 46.96% of young adults aged 18-24 have successfully quit tobacco in India, according to a new report by the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute (VPCI). The findings, released on Thursday, are based on a comprehensive survey of calls received by the government’s National Tobacco QuitLine Services (NTQLS).
The report, published in conjunction with World No Tobacco Day, underscores a significant shift in the nation’s youth towards healthier lifestyles. The NTQLS data reveals that between May 2016 and April 2024, the tobacco quitline received 8.2 million calls via its interactive voice response (IVR) system, with 1,44,938 individuals quitting tobacco from a pool of 4,77,585 registered calls.
Young adults, particularly those with a 12th-grade education, represented the largest group of quitters, accounting for 46.96% of the registered calls to NTQLS. “This data highlights the growing awareness and determination among India’s youth to combat tobacco addiction,” VPCI noted in their report.
The survey also shed light on the demographics and habits of the callers. Over 43% of the respondents were self-employed, 75.85% had no family history of tobacco use, and 68.63% used smokeless tobacco. Geographically, Uttar Pradesh led the way with 1,50,925 calls, making up 31.6% of the total, and 29.68% of the successful quitters.
Dr. Raj Kumar, Director of the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, emphasized the importance of the NTQLS, stating, “The NTQLS provides free, confidential counselling and guidance to tobacco users across the country, empowering them to take charge of their health.” He further explained that quitting tobacco involves more than just willpower. “We address the psychological and behavioural factors that contribute to addiction, offering strategies to manage cravings and overcome withdrawal symptoms,” added Dr. Raj, who has been leading the Tobacco Cessation Clinic (TCC) at VPCI since November 2001.
Over the past 23 years, the TCC at VPCI has been at the forefront of tobacco cessation efforts, organizing 376 public awareness programs, anti-tobacco campaigns, and seminars, reaching over 1.3 million people. These initiatives have trained 57,243 doctors, benefited 44,652 students, and empowered 61,129 social workers, creating a ripple effect of awareness and education.
As India observes World No Tobacco Day, the VPCI’s report stands as a testament to the positive changes being driven by the country’s youth. The growing number of young quitters showcases a promising trend towards a healthier, tobacco-free future for India.
