Tobacco control programmes for universities: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Addiction Research
• Health Promotion

Background:

• University students represent a demographic with a higher likelihood of successful smoking cessation.
• Younger and lighter smokers demonstrate greater efficacy in quitting attempts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate smoking prevalence and cessation desires among university students.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of current smoking cessation interventions and support systems within UK universities.
• To identify optimal strategies for motivating and supporting student smoking cessation.

Main Methods:

• A multi-university survey (n=4141) assessed smoking prevalence and cessation interest.
• Questionnaires were administered to smokers regarding their desire to quit and preferred support.
• Interviews with students (n=101) and university welfare officers explored cessation advertising impact and institutional support.

Main Results:

• Smoking prevalence and cessation desire varied significantly by university, academic subject, and individual characteristics.
• While some television advertisements were recognized, their motivational impact was uncertain.
• Most students desiring to quit faced difficulties and rarely sought help proactively; direct marketing of cessation books, particularly innovative ones, showed promise.
• Student unions offered limited effective support, though most expressed willingness to enhance cessation services.

Conclusions:

• Universities require tailored smoking cessation programs to address student needs.
• Further research is essential to develop effective motivational strategies for students unwilling to quit.
• Directly marketing cessation books appears to be an effective method for engaging students who wish to stop smoking.
• Student unions have substantial potential to improve the availability and quality of smoking cessation aids.