Goa sees sharp rise in tobacco use as chewing cases jump 46% and smoking up 54%

Goa sees sharp rise in tobacco use as chewing cases jump 46% and smoking up 54%
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Goa is witnessing a sharp rise in tobacco consumption, with recent data from the Goa Dental College and Hospital’s Tobacco Cessation Centre (TCC) highlighting a concerning trend. Between 2023 and 2024, the number of smokeless tobacco users surged by 46%, increasing from 914 to 1,335 cases. Smoking-related cases rose 54%, climbing from 488 to 752. The first half of 2025 has already recorded 662 new cases of smokeless tobacco use, indicating the trend shows no signs of slowing.

Health authorities attribute some of this increase to improved awareness, outreach, and reporting, yet public health experts, including Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, caution that the surge reflects a growing public health crisis. Smokeless tobacco is a significant contributor to oral cancers and other serious diseases, and the rising numbers demand urgent intervention.

Government Response

Authorities note that enhanced surveillance and awareness campaigns may partly explain the higher reported cases, but genuine increases in consumption are evident. To counter the trend, Goa has integrated early cancer detection into cessation counselling, allowing cases to be identified at treatable stages.

Prevention efforts include street plays, film festivals, and school sensitization programmes aimed at educating youth about the dangers of tobacco use. Workplace campaigns and law enforcement training have also been intensified, targeting vulnerable groups with tailored interventions.

While e-cigarette use remains limited in Goa, authorities continue strict enforcement of India’s nationwide ban on the production, sale, and promotion of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), alongside educational outreach for students.

Public health experts warn that without sustained action, Goa could face a sharp rise in tobacco-related illnesses, particularly oral cancers, over the coming years. The state’s strategy combines health services, community outreach, education, law enforcement, and targeted support for high-risk populations.

Herald Goa
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