Understanding tobacco usage
Project Aegle is dedicated to understanding South Asian-Americans Tobacco use patterns. South Asian-Americans use tobacco very differently to other groups, consuming more chewing tobacco vs smoking, yet the last study to examine South Asian-American usage was done in 2004. That study showed that 13% of South Asian-Americans use smokeless tobacco while nationwide, only 3.4% of the population used smokeless tobacco. These differences in usage mean different steps must be taken to help South Asian-Americans quit using tobacco compared to other groups. We are working with the Alameda County Department of Public Health to collect survey data on usage rates in the South Asian-American community and thus provide better access to cessation programs. |
Spreading awareness
Project Aegle is dedicated to exposing the dangers posed by usage of all kinds of tobacco, from cigarettes to smokeless tobacco. By working with South Asian community groups and student groups, Project Aegle is dedicated to educating everyone on how tobacco harms us and those around us. We are translating existing information about tobacco dangers into Indian languages and spreading the anti-tobacco messages in places of large South Asian-American population to drive increased awareness. |
Cessation help
Project Aegle is dedicated to helping those addicted to tobacco break the cycle of addiction and live healthier lives. We work to provide cessation services to anyone affected by tobacco, especially those in India. Unfortunately, those looking for cessation services in South Asia find their needs unmet, which is why we plan to create cessation services such as daily Whatsapp messages to those struggling to quit tobacco. We also plan to work with schools and other organizations to fund quit kits and quitlines to help people addicted to tobacco. |
13% of South Asian-Americans use smokeless tobacco compared to 3.4% Americans overall.
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Nearly 50% of children in India are exposed to Second hand smoke
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1 in 8 deaths in India in 2020 will be due to tobacco exposure
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