1462Second hand smoke exposure in pregnant women in Dehradun, Uttrakhand: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Focus of Presentation Tobacco has always been a major public health issue. Being tobacco a major risk factor for so many diseases, it has also become a matter of concern in current situation of the pandemic. Tobacco smoking is not only harmful for the person who is actively smoking but also to ones who are in the vicinity of that smoke. There is plenty of evidence regarding harmful effects of both tobacco and inhaling tobacco smoke passively. This passive smoke is known as Second Hand Smoke. The aim of the study was to estimate percentage and sources of Second Hand Smoke exposure among pregnant women. It was a cross sectional study conducted among pregnant women registered at a Primary health centre. Findings Out of total participants, 62% were exposed to Second hand smoke. 33% participants were exposed to SHS at home only, 24% at public places only and 5 % were the one exposed both at home and public places. More than half (69%) of the participants were having inadequate knowledge about the harms caused by Second hand smoke Conclusions/Implications More than half of the participants were exposed to Second hand smoke. Inadequate knowledge among the participants about adverse effects of SHS exposure and insufficient Key messages Smoke-free homes should be promoted and health-care providers should ask pregnant women about their exposure to SHS and inform about the harms of SHS exposure during anti natal visits.