Tobacco and Alcohol Use in Andaman & Nicobar Islands Among Highest in Country – NFHS 2019-2021 India Report

Tarun Karthick

Campbell Bay, 06 November 2024

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 2019-2021, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands exhibit significant tobacco and alcohol usage among the population aged 15 and above, standing out when compared to other states.

Tobacco Usage: A Stark Comparison

The data reveals that 59% of men and 19% of women aged 15 and over in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands use tobacco products. This rate places the Union Territory among the highest in the country for male tobacco use. In comparison:

– Mizoram tops the list, with 73% of men and 62% of women using tobacco.

– Manipur follows closely with 58% of men and 43% of women.

– The national average for men using tobacco is 38%, while for women, it is just 9%.

This elevated rate underscores a critical public health concern for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Additionally, the survey highlights that tobacco usage is generally higher in rural areas across India, which might contribute to the figures observed in more remote regions of the Union Territory.

Alcohol Consumption: High Among Men, Lower Among Women

When it comes to alcohol use, 42.1% of men in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands reported drinking, while 2.2% of women indicated the same. This level of alcohol use is notably high compared to other states and Union Territories. Key comparisons include:

– Arunachal Pradesh, where 53% of men and 24% of women consume alcohol, marking the highest rates nationwide.

– Telangana and Goa also report high male alcohol consumption rates at 43% and 59.1%, respectively.

The national averages for alcohol use stand at 19% for men and 1% for women, showing that alcohol consumption in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is significantly above average, particularly for men. Factors such as cultural practices of the diverse population, geographic isolation, and limited access to public health interventions might be influencing these high rates.

Implications

The data underscores the importance of addressing these trends, particularly as high tobacco and alcohol usage can lead to long-term health risks, impacting both individuals and the healthcare system within the Union Territory.