Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceived Impact of the Single-Stick Cigarette Ban: A Cross-Sectional Study in Indonesia

This study aimed to investigate public perceptions (knowledge, attitudes, and perceived impact) of the single-stick cigarette sales ban in Indonesia, and to identify sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with these outcomes.

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted among 714 respondents in seven selected districts in Indonesia, utilizing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception (KAP) framework. Multivariable analyses were performed using binary logistic regression for knowledge and ordered logistic regression for attitude and perception. Robust standard errors were applied, and findings are reported as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Most respondents (66.11%) were unaware of the regulation. Older adults (≥55) had lower knowledge (aOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.28-0.79), and active smokers opposed the ban (aOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.23-0.51). Higher education (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.00-4.63) and urban residence (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.08-2.51) correlated with supportive attitudes. Knowledge (aOR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.25-2.87) and supportive attitudes (aOR = 2.86, 95% CI: 1.56-5.22) were the strongest predictors of perceiving the ban as effective for public health.

The implementation of the single-stick cigarette ban in Indonesia has been ineffective, primarily due to a lack of public awareness of the regulation. Smokers and older adults demonstrate significantly limited knowledge of and acceptance toward the policy. These findings highlight the need for increased public awareness campaigns and targeted interventions to improve knowledge and compliance with the single-stick cigarette sales ban in Indonesia.