The use of chewing tobacco has emerged as a significant public health concern across India. Rates of oral cancer continue to rise in the country, with a noticeable increase among younger individuals. This investigation aimed to determine how common chewing tobacco use is and to explore its relationship with the presence of lesions affecting the oral mucosa. A cross-sectional assessment was carried out with 1,209 patients visiting the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at Vyas Dental College, Jodhpur. Data were collected through a structured form that documented demographic characteristics, tobacco habits, and other harmful practices. A single calibrated examiner evaluated the oral mucosa for lesions, and each diagnosis underwent confirmation. Most respondents were men (81.8%) and fell within the 26–35-year age bracket. The most common habit involved chewing mixtures that combined tobacco with areca nut (48.2%). Over 36% of individuals used processed tobacco (90%) and did so at least four times daily. About 25% of participants exhibited tobacco pouch keratosis. Chewing tobacco showed a strong association with the onset of oral mucosal abnormalities, particularly among male users and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. In addition to targeted cessation programs, modifying the cultural acceptance of chewing tobacco and enforcing strict control measures in both public and workplace settings is crucial.
