Frequency of waterpipe smoking and its effective factors among students of state universities in Kerman, Iran

Abstract

Background — Nowadays, using tobacco such as waterpipe is considered a worldwide health problem. In recent years, the consumption of waterpipe, has been increased in different countries, especially among young people. This study was conducted to determine the frequency of waterpipe consumption and factors affecting it among Kerman students. Methods — This cross-sectional study was conducted among Kerman students. The students were selected using convenience sampling, and each of them completed the waterpipe consumption questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using chi-square test and logistic regression, as well as SPSS 17 software. Results — In this study, 675 students were investigated. The mean (±standard deviation) age of the subjects was 21.1 (±2.6) years and 39% of them were male, and 30% of students had the experience of waterpipe consumption. The most important reason for waterpipe was entertainment, followed by curiosity. The waterpipe consumption was correlated with male gender, lower education level, living in a single house, and its consumption by friends or family members. Conclusion — The results indicated that approximately one third of students experienced waterpipe smoking and some groups of them were susceptible to waterpipe smoking. Therefore, planning and intervention for the students are needed.