Smoking behavior among Saudi Arabian male college students in the U.S.: A case study

Abstract

Background. Saudi Arabia is ranked 23rd for tobacco consumption globally, and approximately 25%-43% of male college students in Saudi Arabia were smokers. The current study uses a qualitative approach to explore the facilitators and barriers that influence the smoking behavior among Saudi international college students in the U.S. Method. Fifteen Saudi male international students who studied at a small liberal arts college were recruited and interviewed for about 30 to 50 minutes, following a semi-structured interview guideline. Results. The hookah was preferred by participants to the cigarettes because of its smell and the entertaining way of doing it. The major facilitators of the smoking behavior were socializing and leisure activity, academic stress, and reduced family influence. The protective factors included cost, accessibility, smoking policy, and influences from American culture. Conclusion. It is necessary to consider the Saudi students’ social needs, the level of stress, and the influences of the American culture when health professionals and colleges and universities examine smoking behavior among Saudi international students.