Tobacco, alcohol use in Jharkhand men higher than national average: NFHS-6

Ranchi: Tobacco and alcohol consumption remain significantly higher among men in the state than the national average, emerging as a major public health concern even as Jharkhand made modest gains in other health indicators, according to NFHS-6 (2023–24) data, which was released on Friday. However, the state has better indicators compared to the previous NFHS-5 survey (2019-21).The survey revealed that around 45% of men in Jharkhand use tobacco, higher than the national average of about 36%, indicating widespread dependence across both rural and urban areas. Medical experts said that the behaviour underscores persistent behavioural risk factors that could drive future rise in non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular ailments and respiratory illness.Alcohol consumption follows a similar trend too. Men consuming alcohol (33.6%) in Jharkhand constitute a significantly higher share than the national average (18.9%).Public health experts said the twin burden of tobacco and alcohol consumption is compounding risks, particularly among economically vulnerable populations.“Despite growing awareness campaigns, the state’s high prevalence of tobacco use reflects gaps in enforcement of anti-tobacco laws, limited counselling services, and inadequate de-addiction infrastructure. Rural pockets and tribal-dominated regions remain especially vulnerable,” said an official of the health department.NFHS-6 findings assume importance as lifestyle diseases are on the rise, and high tobacco and alcohol use could undermine gains made in maternal and child health. Experts argued that tackling these habits is critical to improving overall health outcomes.They stressed the need for targeted interventions, including stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws, expansion of de-addiction centres, behavioural change campaigns, and integration of substance use counselling into primary healthcare.