The association of smokeless tobacco usage with the mental health status of late adolescents in rural areas of Wardha district: a cross-sectional study [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]

Introduction The unburned tobacco consumed orally is referred to as Smokeless tobacco. Smokeless tobacco consumption among rural adolescents is seen at a large scale. The early initiation of smokeless tobacco is associated with physical as well as psychological problems in human beings. Objectives This research aims to ascertain the frequency of smokeless tobacco utilization and investigate the association between the use of smokeless tobacco and mental health outcomes in late adolescents. Methods It is an analytical cross-sectional study that will be conducted in the rural field practice area of the Department of Community Medicine, JNMC, DMIHER (DU), Wardha district. The students aged 15 to 19 years from middle school, secondary, and higher secondary school will be the participants. The assessment of mental health status will be determined based on the score obtained from the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The Chi-Square Test will be used to find the correlation between the variables. The data analysis will be presented via tables, graphs, and charts. Study implications This study will provide evidence for policy generation and strengthen the existing policies associated with smokeless tobacco usage among the adolescent population.