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Cigarette smoking habits among schoolchildren
1Department of Pediatrics, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
Chest
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Many children start smoking by age 12, with peer influence being a key factor. Early intervention and addressing social pressures are crucial for effective smoking prevention programs in youth.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cigarette smoking is a leading preventable cause of global morbidity and mortality.
- Adolescent smoking initiation often occurs before age 18, highlighting the need for early prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the age of smoking initiation in children.
- To investigate environmental factors influencing childhood smoking.
- To understand the motivations behind adolescent smoking.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 847 students (grades 6-11) in Jerusalem using anonymous questionnaires.
- Assessed smoking habits, initiation age, reasons for smoking, and views on smoking.
- Collected data on parental, sibling, and friend smoking status.
Main Results:
- 35% of students had tried smoking, and 14% were current smokers, with rates increasing to 36% by age 17.
- Experimental smoking significantly increased after age 12 (7th grade).
- Peer smoking substantially increased smoking likelihood; parental/sibling smoking did not. 'Trying something new' was the primary reason (55%).
Conclusions:
- High prevalence of smoking among schoolchildren in Jerusalem necessitates earlier prevention programs, starting by age 12.
- Peer pressure is a significant driver of adolescent smoking.
- Prevention strategies should focus on negative imagery and peer pressure, as children are aware of health risks.