Profile of the first known tobacco smoker in a rural area of Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: Although tobacco smoking worldwide is associated with a wide range of health hazards which are time¬dependent, little information is available regarding the duration of time to which the various Kenyan rural communities have been exposed to tobacco smoking habits. Objective: To probe into the origin and estimate the duration of the smoking history of a rural community in Githongo, Meru District of Kenya, where a high prevalence of the tobacco associated precancerous lesion of oral leukoplakia has been reported. Design: This was a case study of the first known tobacco smoker in Githongo. Materials and Methods: The first known tobacco smoker in Githongo, Mr. JK was identified with the help of an agricultural extension officer and local elders. He was interviewed on, among other factors, his smoking history, how he acquired the habit and any ill health suffered. He was also examined for oral mucosal lesions. Results: The people of Githongo were exposed to the influence of tobacco smoking habit since 1936, when the first known tobacco smoker (Mr. JK), acquired the habit from Asian migrants from India, who were smoking a product thought to be bidi. He made and smoked kiraiku (traditionally processed tobacco) modeled on the product smoked by Asians but switched to conventional cigarettes on joining the British Army. He recruited other members of the community into the smoking habit. After smoking for more than 40 yrs, Mr. JK developed serious respiratory tract problems which soon resolved upon cessation of the habit. Oral examination revealed no clinically significant oral mucosal lesions. Conclusion: The case of Mr. JK suggests long-term exposure of the people of Githongo to the influence of tobacco smoking and is an example of health hazards that can result from long-term tobacco smoking and the health benefits of cessation of such habits.