<h4>Understanding the Tobacco Epidemic in India</h4><p>The <strong>tobacco epidemic</strong> represents a significant global public health challenge. It is universally recognized as the single most important <strong>preventable cause of disease and death</strong> worldwide.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Key Concept: Preventable Cause</strong><br>A <strong>preventable cause</strong> refers to a risk factor that can be avoided or mitigated through public health interventions, policy changes, and individual behavioral modifications, thereby reducing the incidence of associated diseases and mortality.</p></div><p>India faces a substantial burden from tobacco consumption. The nation holds the unenviable position of having the <strong>second-highest number of tobacco consumers globally</strong>, only after China.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>India's Tobacco Burden</strong><br>Number of Consumers: Approximately <strong>26 crore people</strong> (260 million)<br>Global Rank: <strong>Second-highest</strong> (after China)</p></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight: Mains GS-I & GS-II</strong><br>This topic is crucial for <strong>GS-I (Social Issues)</strong>, focusing on health and demographic trends, and <strong>GS-II (Governance, Social Justice)</strong>, regarding public health policies and their implementation. Be prepared to discuss both the scale of the problem and potential solutions.</p></div>