Assessment of Smoking Practices Among Male College Students

Abstract

Background: Smoking finds its roots in early adolescent life and lifestyle changes introduced at
this level may prevent one from adopting this life threatening habit.
Objects: To assess the knowledge and practices of smoking among male college students.
Methods: 200 male students of a government college were interviewed using pre designed
questionnaire. Data was analysed using Epi Info version 3.3.2.
Results: 85% did not know about any effect of smoking on health. Radio/TV was the main
source of information. Most smokers were in 2nd year class (14%). Next was 4th year class
(1.2%). Mean age was 18.5 years. Most of the smokers belonged to younger age group i.e. 17-19
years of age. More smokers belonged to urban areas (54.55%). Most of the smokers had parents
who were businessmen (31.82%).The trend was highest in upper class (54.54%). Majority of the
smokers developed the habit being inspired by their fathers (27.28%). Most of the boys (54.55%)
smoked their first cigarette while they were at the college.
Conclusion: Major lifestyle modifications may help curb smoking and reduce the harm brought
by this menace to mankind