Determinants and Prevalence of Smoking among Young Male Patients attending at OPD in Selected Hospital

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Smoking is a major public health concern worldwide, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh. Adolescents are highly vulnerable to tobacco use, and early initiation increases the risk of chronic diseases. Understanding the prevalence and determinants of smoking among young males is crucial for developing effective preventive strategies. Objective: To determine the prevalence and identify determinants of smoking among young male patients attending the outpatient department (OPD) of a selected hospital in Patuakhali, Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 150 male adolescents aged 10–19 years attending the OPD of a 250-bed general hospital. Data were collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews covering socio-demographic characteristics, smoking habits, and influencing factors. Pervasive sampling was used, and pre-testing of the questionnaire was conducted. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 11.5. Results: The prevalence of smoking among respondents was 35.33%. Most adolescents (86.79%) initiated smoking between 14 and 17 years, while 13.21% started between 10 and 13 years. Peer influence (50.94%), familial smoking environment (13.21%), and the desire to appear mature (7.55%) were the main determinants of smoking. Adolescents with lower education levels, as well as those with less-educated parents, had a higher prevalence of smoking. Despite 100% awareness of the health risks of smoking, knowledge alone did not prevent smoking behavior. Conclusion: Smoking is prevalent among young male adolescents, with social and environmental factors, rather than knowledge, primarily influencing initiation. Targeted interventions focusing on peer pressure, family influence, and education are essential to curb adolescent smoking in Bangladesh.