Risk factors for tobacco use among adolescents in Mangalore taluk: A cross-sectional urban–rural comparison

Abstract

Background: Tobacco consumption is a major contributor to deaths from cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic diseases. The prevention of tobacco use among adolescents appears to be the single greatest opportunity for preventing noncommunicable diseases. Aim: The study aimed to assess the risk factors for current tobacco use among urban and rural school-going adolescents in Mangalore taluk. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 620 adolescents, and an equal number of participants were surveyed from urban and rural areas. After obtaining necessary approvals, schools were selected by stratified cluster sampling. A 10-item structured, self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed in the SPSS version 20.0 using the Chi-squared test with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Results: Current tobacco use was 12.7%. It was higher among males ( P < 0.001) and urban adolescents. Smokeless tobacco use was reported by 72.1% of current users; 68.3% of users reported starting habit in the past year. Rural boys formed a statistically significant component of frequent users ( P = 0.0024). Predominant reasons for initiation were used by family and friends/peers. Enhanced self-esteem was reported by 19.0% of users, whereas 39.2% experienced ill-effects. Desire to quit habit was expressed by 31.7% of users; 88.6% of users and 78.9% of nonusers stated that tobacco use was harmful. Conclusions: The prevalence of current tobacco use was 12.7%, and the smokeless form was predominantly used. Major influences on habit initiation were used by family and friends. While one-fifth reported enhanced self-esteem and 31.7% users wanted to quit habit. Enforcement of comprehensive tobacco control legislations is essential to protect this vulnerable population.