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When and why Ain Shams University students started smoking?
M A Gadalla1, M S Gabal, A K Khella
1Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Ain Shams University.
The Journal of the Egyptian Public Health Association
|January 1, 1992
Summary
This study reveals that 37.9% of university students are smokers, with many starting before age 18. Key risk factors for smoking initiation include peer influence, family issues, and substance use.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Smoking remains a significant public health concern among young adults.
- Understanding the prevalence and predictors of smoking initiation is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of smoking among university students.
- To identify the age of smoking initiation.
- To investigate risk factors associated with taking up regular smoking.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1291 university students (861 males, 430 females) aged 17-28.
- Data on smoking status, age of initiation, and associated factors were collected.
- Statistical analysis was used to identify significant risk factors.
Main Results:
- Overall smoking prevalence was 37.9% (52% males, 9% females).
- A significant proportion initiated smoking before age 18 (21% males, 12% females before 14; 80% males, 57% females before 18).
- Associated risk factors included smoker peers, higher income, car ownership, family troubles, drug use, hashish smoking, and alcohol consumption.
Conclusions:
- University students exhibit a high prevalence of smoking, with early initiation being common.
- Peer influence, socioeconomic factors, family environment, and substance use are significant predictors of smoking uptake.
- Interventions should address these multifaceted risk factors to reduce smoking prevalence in this demographic.