Tobacco use and related factors among Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Medicine Freshers

Abstract

Objective: Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the world. The prevalence of smoking among medical students in Turkey ranged from 11.8% to 44.2%. The aim of this study was to determine the factors associated with smoking among Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Medicine freshers.

Materials and Methods: This study was a cross sectional study. A 22-item questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive data are shown in percent. Median, minimum and maximum values are given. Chi-square test was used in the analytical assessment. Type 1 error level is taken as alpha= 0.05.

Results: The number of students participating in the study was 188. 55.9% of the students were female. The median age of the students was 19 years (17-22). 24.8% of students (n= 46) reported cigarette use at some points in their lives. 10.8% of students were regular smokers, 7.6% reported smoking occasionally, and 6.4% stated that they had quit smoking. 18.7% of 16 subjects who reported interest in quitting were not aware of the cessation methods. 78.3% of students reported not being affected by the images and slogans on cigarette packages. 46.% of the students stated that being in a circle of smoking friends increased cigarette consumption. Nonetheless, the circle of friends was the most important group with 75% of among whom supporting to quit smoking.

Conclusion: Currently, one out of every five medical students is a smoker. This rate is expected to be higher in upper-class students. Efforts to prevent smoking and promote and support smoking among medical students are of great importance. Further studies including regular and occasional smokers and those who consider quitting are needed.