Patterns of Nicotine Use Among Women in the Rural Population of Kolar: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use among Indian women, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds with little access to formal education, has been steadily increasing, which is a cause for concern. Women frequently use various forms and companies of powdered, rubbed, and chewed SLT, with or without betelnut and flavorings, often simultaneously, starting at an early age and persisting into their reproductive years. Consequently, they are vulnerable to both the chance of developing cancer and experiencing health issues during pregnancy and childbirth.