Recent data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) reveals that men in Jharkhand have significantly higher rates of tobacco and alcohol use compared to the national average. The survey shows that 45.2% of men in Jharkhand use tobacco, while the national average stands at 36%. Similarly, alcohol consumption among men in the state is 36%, double the national average of 18.9%.
Comparison with Previous Survey
The NFHS-5 data indicated that tobacco use among men in Jharkhand was 47.4%, and alcohol consumption was 34.9%. While tobacco use has slightly decreased, alcohol consumption has increased marginally. Nationally, NFHS-5 reported tobacco use at 38% and alcohol consumption at 18.7%.
Implications for Public Health
These high rates of substance use pose serious health risks, including increased incidences of cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular problems. Health experts emphasize the need for targeted interventions in the state to reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption.
ASRP Mukesh, a journalist with over 15 years of experience covering government, politics, and human interest stories from Jharkhand, reported these findings.
