Smoking habits of students in College of Applied Medical Science, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

To establish a baseline data on the smoking habits of health science students in a Saudi Arabian university environment. The participating subjects were students of the College of Applied Medical Sciences within the age range of 18 to 26. An experimental design with pre-structured questionnaires, and simple random sampling was administered to 712 participants by a panel of experts in behavioral health sciences. Out of 647 respondents, 186 (29%) were current smokers. Of those that indicated that they were currently smokers, 127 (20%) were male and 59 (9%) were female. The 20-24 year old age group exhibited the highest prevalence of smoking (P<0.000). Major factors influencing the smoking prevalence were the smoking habits of peers, siblings, and parents (P<0.005). Most of the respondents appeared to be Light Smokers , consuming less than 10 cigarettes per day. When asked of their awareness of the health hazards of smoking, 73% of the respondents answered that they were aware of the hazards. Of those that smoked, 70% expressed a desire to cease cigarette smoking. Media influence was considered to be the major source of information on the health consequences of cigarette smoking. Cigarette smoking is prevalent among students of health care professionals. Author advocates a collaborative effort in order to alleviate the consequences of cigarette smoking among health professionals. This effort must embody a multidisciplinary approach that includes legislators, mass media, public education and health professionals at all levels.