Maternal betel quid chewing and its association with adverse birth outcomes: An analytical cross-sectional study from central India
Palash Saoji, Prachi Saoji, Ajeet Saoji, Kartik Khurana, Priya Pratapan Nair, Poojal MapariAbstract
Introduction:
Betel quid chewing is a deeply embedded sociocultural practice across South Asia, with increasing prevalence among women of reproductive age. Despite growing evidence linking smokeless tobacco use to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, its impact during pregnancy remains underexplored in the Indian context, particularly in high-prevalence regions.
Materials and Methods:
An analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted among 220 mothers admitted at a tertiary care hospital in central India. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, and neonatal outcomes were collected using a structured proforma. Maternal exposure to betel quid was assessed based on habitual daily use for at least one year. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated to assess associations.
Results:
Among the participants, 48 (21.8%) reported habitual consumption. Betel quid use was significantly associated with lower educational status, low household income, and occupation as a housewife (
Conclusion:
Betel quid consumption during pregnancy is common in the study population and is significantly associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. These findings highlight the urgent need to integrate routine screening and culturally sensitive cessation interventions into antenatal care services in high-prevalence regions.