Shift Work, Stress, and Smoking: Understanding Tobacco Use and Oral Health Awareness Among Business Process Outsourcing Employees in Chennai, India (2023)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Public Health Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha University, SIMATS, Chennai, India

2 Department of Periodontology, Army Dental Centre (Research & Referral), Delhi, India

Abstract

Background: Tobacco use is one of the major public health issues worldwide and affects both oral and general health. The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry in India employs a predominantly young workforce, which may be at a higher risk of tobacco initiation and dependence due to occupational stress and lifestyle-related factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of tobacco use and related oral health problems among BPO employees in Chennai, India.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 229 BPO workers from Chennai, India, in 2023. The study was carried out using a pretested structured questionnaire to collect information on demographic factors, use of tobacco in any form, and self-reported oral health problems. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v26, employing chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression (P < 0.05). Prevalence rates were estimated, and associated oral health effects were identified based on the analyzed data.
Results: The prevalence of tobacco use was 85%, and gingival bleeding was significantly higher among night-shift workers (P=0.013), with the majority using smoking forms of tobacco.
Conclusion: The study highlights an alarmingly high level of tobacco use in this population and indicates that a significant burden of oral disease exists among tobacco users. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health promotion strategies within the BPO sector. Worksite interventions focusing on preventive oral health education, routine dental check-ups, and access to tobacco cessation services are imperative to curb tobacco use and mitigate associated health risks. Immediate implementation of such programs is critical to prevent further oral and systemic health complications in this vulnerable workforce.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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johoe.v10i3.1165
Journal of Oral Health and Oral Epidemiology
Volume 15
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History

  • Receive Date: 13 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 22 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 31 January 2026

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