Abstract P464: A 5-Day Lifestyle Program for Tobacco and Paan Cessation in South India

Tobacco is a leading global preventable cause of premature death accounting for over 8 million deaths amongst its 1.3 billion users and costing the global economy US$ 1.4 trillion each year. In India, 29% of all adults are users with the most prevalent form being smokeless tobacco. It’s use is the #3 attributable risk factor for death in India accounting for nearly 1.35 million deaths annually. Areca (Betel) nut is consumed by 24% of adults with significant oral & other health consequences. Greater attention needs to be given to preventing initiation and cessation of tobacco, nicotine and areca nut products. This study aimed to assess the response of patients attending to a 5-day tobacco and paan cessation program in a dental clinic of a South India teaching hospital from May 25 to December 25, 2019. All patients attending a dental clinic were screened for tobacco and/or paan use. If present, they were invited to attend a 5-day “Living Free from Tobacco & Paan” program which did not use pharmacologic aids. Nicotine tests are offered to those completing the program. Telephonic follow-up was conducted to ascertain and encourage sustained abstinence. 85 of 179 patients completed 5 days of which 78.8% had a negative nicotine test. Tobacco product users included: smokeless (44%), smoker (31%) and both (26%). About ½ users had low, 1/4 moderate and 20% severe dependence. Most common oral cavity lesions were tobacco pouch keratosis, leukoplakia, and oral submucous fibrosis. This program was well received and has a very acceptable early quit rate. Additional patient follow-up is needed to ascertain sustained abstinence. Intentional habit cessation interventions should be offered by all healthcare providers.