Examining Recent Hookah Use, Other Substance Use, and Substance Use Prevention Education Among College Students

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground: Hookah tobacco use is an emerging public health problem. Purpose: The purpose of the present study is to examine recent hookah tobacco use among college students and potential correlates including other drugs and drug education. Methods: The paper version of the National College Health Assessment II was completed by 765 students enrolled at one urban university. Results: Findings indicated that 14.2% of students used hookah in the past 30 days. Significant differences were found based on recent alcohol, recent cigarette use, recent cigar use, recent smokeless tobacco use, and recent marijuana use. Students who received tobacco education were at increased odds for hookah use (χ2 = 5.592, df = 1, P = .018). The final regression model predicted recent hookah use (omnibus χ2 = 129.779, df = 6, P < .001) and accounted for 15.6% to 28.0% of the variance in recent hookah use. Discussion: Students using hookah were found to use other type of substances, which may warrant attention on college campuses. Translation to Health Education Practice: Study findings indicate that tobacco education programs may not adequately address hookah use. Health Education professionals may need to implement specific lessons on hookah as part of tobacco education programs.A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars