Chewing tobacco linked to 251,000 deaths worldwide, with more than 90% of health loss concentrated in 10 countries
A new study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) finds that chewing tobacco use contributed to an estimated 251,000 deaths globally in 2023, with health loss overwhelmingly concentrated in South Asia.
A new study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation found that chewing tobacco use caused an estimated 251,000 deaths worldwide in 2023, with most of the health burden concentrated in South Asia. The analysis, part of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023, is the most comprehensive assessment of chewing tobacco's health impact to date.
Despite decades of progress in tobacco control, chewing tobacco use prevalence has remained relatively stable at 3.9% globally, with higher rates among males. No country saw a decrease in chewing tobacco users between 1990 and 2023, and 24 countries experienced increases. South Asia had the highest concentration of use, accounting for 84% of global deaths.
The study reveals that a small number of countries bear an overwhelming share of the health burden, with over 90% of male and female chewing tobacco-related deaths and disability occurring in 10 countries. Chewing tobacco is not a uniform public health problem, and the findings highlight the need for tailored prevention and cessation strategies that reflect regional, age, and sex differences in use patterns.
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