Habitual risk factors in gutka chewers

Background: Gutka chewing habit is found to be addictive and contains damaging and destructive effects on oral health. What factors lead to its usage, habit development and which sex is more predisposed to its effects is being evaluated in this study. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the contributing factors and prevalence associated with gutka chewing habit in comparison to women and men and to determine the effect of this habit on the oral cavity. Materials and Methods: Participants were divided into four categories of age 6-12 in children, 14-25 years and 25-45 adults. Two groups of men and women were also made for comparison. This cross-sectional study was conducted with the help of using self-administered questionnaire during January 2016 to March 2016. Where the questionnaire was comprised multiple questions through which socioeconomic condition and professional and mental stability, such as psychological stress was assessed. Results: Overall prevalence of tobacco chewing was males 67% and females 32% among the youth with and Urdu-speaking group was mostly involved as compare to other ethnic groups. Gutka was being used most frequently 3-5 times per day by males and females. Reasons revealed from our study for chewing were most commonly influence of friends, for fun and depression. And changes in oral cavity were also observed in the form of development of stains, caries, plaque, and calculus. Conclusion: According to the study age, socioeconomic condition, occupation, psychological stress, friends, and family influence were the contributing factors associated with gutka chewing habit. Moreover, habitual chewing affects the oral health by introducing caries, calculus, and stains. Clinical Significance: Strengths and limitations depend on the cooperation level of the participants. The study has concluded that many contributing factors such as age, socioeconomic status, profession, and psychological stress play an important role in this habit in both women and men.