Exploring Betel Quid Chewing Among Orang Asli: A Qualitative Study

• Published in: Journal of Community Health
• Main Author: Jamil M.A.; Sabri B.A.M.; Yani A.A.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Springer 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85207262370&doi=10.1007%2fs10900-024-01418-6&partnerID=40&md5=e0ab37e4ce510ad612d7d64b3ee03c83

Betel quid chewing is a culturally significant practice among the indigenous people (Orang Asli) in Malaysia, but it poses serious health risks, including oral cancer and systemic diseases. Studies on betel quid chewing are limited, making it difficult to develop effective public health interventions. This study aimed to explore the cultural significance, perceived health effects, and misconceptions surrounding betel quid chewing among the indigenous people, assess their awareness of health risks, and explore factors influencing their intentions to quit or reduce betel quid chewing. A qualitative phenomenological design was used, with five groups of Focus Group Discussions conducted with 15 participants from an Orang Asli village in Johor. The discussions revealed that betel quid chewing is deeply embedded in Orang Asli culture, often beginning in childhood and associated with social and ceremonial occasions. However, awareness of health risks, particularly oral cancer, was inconsistent. Social support and personal motivation were critical in influencing quitting behaviors. These findings highlight the need for culturally tailored cessation programs that address the unique social and environmental factors influencing betel quid use in this population. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2024.