Introduction : Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable mortality, responsible for more than 1.35 million deaths annually in India. Tamil Nadu reports a prevalence of 10.2% among adults, with smokeless tobacco contributing significantly to oral cancers. This study assessed quit rates and cessation outcomes among tobacco users attending the Tobacco Cessation Centre (TCC) in Thoothukudi.
Methods : A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2024 and March 2025 using secondary data from TCC records. A total of 57 individuals were analyzed. Demographic factors, Fagerstrom dependence scores, treatment modalities, and quit status were assessed. Carbon monoxide (CO) levels were used to verify abstinence.
RESULTS: The overall quit rate was 43.8%. The mean age of participants was 46 years, with 95% males. Most participants (84%) used only behavioural interventions, while 16% received both behavioural therapy and nicotine replacement therapy. Mean Fagerstrom scores were 4.3, and mean CO levels decreased from 18.7 ppm at baseline to 2.5 ppm at follow-up. Family-reported abstinence confirmed 37.5% sustained quitting.
CONCLUSION: Tobacco cessation services at the district level demonstrated effectiveness, particularly through behavioural interventions. Sustained abstinence was feasible with continuous follow-up and CO monitoring. Strengthened counselling, NRT accessibility, and community engagement are critical to improving quit rates.