Global Trends and Emerging Frontiers in Smoking and Smokeless Tobacco Research: A Bibliometric Analysis over the Past Decade.

UNLABELLED: Tobacco use remains a critical global health issue, with extensive research focusing on its impact on public health, particularly its strong association with oral cavity cancer. It is a leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide, affecting millions each year. Despite increased awareness and regulatory measures, tobacco continues to pose significant challenges, prompting ongoing investigations into its health effects and related behaviors.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of smoking and smokeless tobacco research from 2014 to 2024, focusing on identifying key research trends, influential contributors, emerging topics, and collaborative networks on a global scale.

METHODS

A dataset of 2694 research papers from PubMed was analyzed using bibliometric tools. Keyword co-occurrence, authorship patterns, and institutional collaborations were mapped to reveal dominant themes and trends. Additionally, country-specific publications were examined to assess geographical contributions and emerging research frontiers.

RESULTS

The analysis indicates a 7.3% annual increase in publications, with a peak in 2021 likely influenced by COVID-19. Research topics have shifted from traditional tobacco-related health impacts, such as lung cancer and cardiovascular diseases, to newer areas like e-cigarettes and social determinants of health. Strong international collaborations were noted, with the U.S., China, and Europe as dominant contributors. Emerging research frontiers include electronic nicotine delivery systems and strategies aimed at controlling tobacco-related health risks.

CONCLUSION

This bibliometric study highlights significant growth in tobacco-related research over the past decade. Evolving trends reflect a shift toward newer tobacco products and public health challenges. These findings provide valuable insights for shaping future research agendas and informing global tobacco control policies.