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The use of smokeless tobacco among UK South Asian communities

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Constance, Janice (2018) The use of smokeless tobacco among UK South Asian communities. Doctoral thesis, London Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

More than 2 million people in the UK consumes chewing tobacco products, of which the majority are from South Asian communities. The use of chewing tobacco products needs to be investigated due to the association with adverse health effects amongst its users. The purpose of this research was to investigate the opinions and attitudes towards the use of smokeless tobacco amongst South Asian people in England. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Data was analysed using a deductive thematic analysis using the layers of influence model by Dahlgren and Whitehead (1991) as a framework: Individual characteristics, Lifestyle factors, Social and Community networks, Environmental and Cultural conditions. The themes identified confirms that the layers of determinants can be used to understand an individual’s use of chewing tobacco products. This research provides a starting point for the development of interventions for the cessation of smokeless tobacco, which is currently lacking within the UK. It has been identified through this research, that a multifaceted approach is needed in order to address the use of chewing tobacco and the resulting health disparities. This includes education and training for health professionals to understand the cultural context of chewing tobacco; campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers and harm related to chewing tobacco at a community level and a reconsideration of national control policies.

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