Prevalence, determinants and perspectives of Tobacco use among male college students: a cross-sectional study in Visakhapatnam
Journal Title: IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences (IOSR-JDMS) - Year 2018, Vol 17, Issue 10
Abstract
Background: Tobacco use is a major public health problem worldwide. It is estimated that 7 million people die each year from tobacco use. The prevalence of tobacco use is rising in adolescents and young adults. Teenagers easily get influenced by their peers and media to experiment substances like tobacco. Due to lack of awareness on the harmful nature, addictive potential and long-term effects of tobacco use, college students tend to start tobacco consumption. Hence, the present study was done to assess the prevalence, determinants and attitudes of tobacco use among college students in Visakhapatnam. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in two randomly selected colleges in Visakhapatnam for one month in November 2017. 300 male college students in their first, second and third years of degree were selected for the study. Data on socio-demographic profile and perspectives of tobacco use was recorded using a self-administered, pre-designed, pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analysed by entering it in MS excel worksheet. Results: The prevalence of tobacco use is 17.3% of which 57.7% smoke cigarette, 26.9% use smokeless tobacco and 15.4% smoke beedi. 66.6% of cigarette smokers are < 20 years in age. 56.7% of cigarette smokers belong to urban areas of residence and 63.3% belong to Hindu religion. 60% of current cigarette smokers want to stop smoking. 17.6% are exposed to secondhand smoking at home and 46.6% at enclosed public places. 88.6% noticed tobacco advertisements on television or movies. 72.6% definitely believe that it is difficult to quit smoking once started. 20.3% thought smoking helps them feel comfortable at parties and gatherings. 89% are in favor of banning smoking inside enclosed areas and 85% for banning smoking in outdoor public places. Conclusions: Implementing anti-tobacco awareness programmes, educating students in schools and colleges on the harmful nature of tobacco and developing effective laws is crucial. Providing adequate support and counselling to those willing to quit tobacco is pivotal. Regular surveillance and assessment of disease burden through periodical surveys can help determine the prevalence and attitudes of people, thus allowing for development of more comprehensive and targeted approaches to effectively handle the problem.
Authors and Affiliations
Radha Kumari Paladugu, Manasa Jasti
Keywords
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