91% smokers never tried to quit smoking: ICICI Lombard

The majority of smokers in India has never tried to quit the habit. According to a survey on tobacco consumption habits by ICICI Lombard General Insurance, only 9 out of 10 smokers have never tried to quit smoking, among the survey respondents.

The survey looked into the various patterns of tobacco consumption and how social and psychological factors influence tobacco consumers’ lifestyle. The national survey covered all four regions through Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Hyderabad, with a sample size of 1,111 respondents.

The study also revealed that only 45 per cent of respondents have health insurance cover. Sanjay Datta, Chief – Underwriting & Claims, ICICI Lombard GIC Ltd. said, “The findings clearly indicate that a lot needs to be done to motivate people to quit unhealthy habits related to tobacco consumption as well as opt for health insurance for their financial safety”.

Also, over 70 per cent started tobacco consumption with cigarettes and the average weekly spend is Rs 380.

When asked about the ill-effects of consuming tobacco, over 80 per cent respondents stated that they are aware of the fact that smoking/chewing tobacco causes lung/mouth/throat cancer. Respondents in all centres except in Mumbai identified strong addiction to tobacco as the primary hindrance in quitting smoking/chewing tobacco .

The survey also revealed 62 per cent increased smoking consumption since they feel it is a good stress reliever, 54 per cent smoke more due to work pressure and 42 per cent because of problems in personal life.

Survey findings highlights:

* 41% of the respondents in Mumbai have increased cigarette consumption in the last 2-3 years whereas only 14% have decreased consumption.

* 62% increased smoking consumption since they feel it is a good stress reliever, 54% smoke more due to work pressure and 42% because of problems in personal life.

* 64% of the respondents started initial tobacco consumption with cigarette in Mumbai.

* Nearly 50 % of the respondents smoke 4 to 5 cigarettes per day in Mumbai, 95% respondents in Mumbai never tried to quit tobacco consumption.

* In Mumbai, chewing tobacco and smoking bidi are ranked as No. 1 and 2 intoxication habits.

* 56% respondents in Mumbai feel that the smoking would not affect their health as they have been consuming tobacco for a long time without having faced any ill effects.

* When compared to other cities, Mumbai has highest number of insurance policies which cover critical illnesses including ailments related to tobacco consumption.

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