A recent health survey by Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, conducted in recognition of World No Tobacco Day, has revealed a concerning trend: a persistently high rate of tobacco use, often accompanied by alcohol consumption, posing a dual threat to public health.

Out of over 1,000 participants, a large portion confessed to using tobacco regularly. Despite widespread awareness of its harmful effects, many individuals admitted difficulty in quitting, pointing to the strong hold of addiction. The findings underscore that information alone isn't enough—tobacco addiction is a chronic issue that demands comprehensive support.

Dr. Tirathram Kaushik, Consultant Oncosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, expressed alarm over the data. He highlighted that the combined use of tobacco and alcohol greatly increases cancer risks, particularly of the mouth, throat, and oesophagus. He explained,

“These substances reinforce each other’s addiction, making it harder for individuals to break free.”

The survey also revealed that while many participants attempted to quit, 117 reported trying, 149 acknowledged relapsing, illustrating the difficulty of achieving lasting change.

Dr. Kaushik stressed the need for medical treatment, counselling, and mental health support to combat tobacco addiction effectively. He called for structured interventions that address not only physical dependency but also emotional and psychological triggers.