[Teenagers and smoking: prevalence, patterns and attitudes]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Adolescent Health
• Tobacco Control

Background:

• Adolescent smoking remains a significant public health concern globally.
• Early initiation of smoking is linked to long-term nicotine dependence and adverse health outcomes.
• Understanding adolescent knowledge and attitudes towards smoking is crucial for effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of smoking among 12-14 year olds in Salamanca.
• To evaluate adolescent knowledge and attitudes regarding smoking.
• To determine the impact of comic strip-based information on smoking awareness.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study involving 4907 adolescents aged 12-14.
• Data collected on demographics, smoking status, and awareness of smoking consequences.
• Pre- and post-intervention assessment of knowledge after exposure to a smoking-themed comic strip.

Main Results:

• 45.4% of boys and 39% of girls reported ever smoking; 20.5% were current smokers.
• The average age of initiating smoking was 11.1 years, often with cigarettes offered by friends.
• Comic strip intervention significantly increased awareness of tobacco as a drug (91.8% to 99.1%), passive smoking (70.1% to 88.2%), and addiction (84.2% to 97.8%).

Conclusions:

• Adolescents in Salamanca are exposed to tobacco at an early age.
• Existing smoking information is insufficient, highlighting a need for improvement.
• Comic strips are an effective tool for educating adolescents about smoking and aiding prevention efforts.