Smoking prevalence, nicotine dependence, and intention to quit among cigarettes smokers

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Tobacco consumption remains a challenging issue to the global and public health that requires close monitoring of the spread of this epidemic and its impact. This study aims to assess the national prevalence and determinates of cigarette smoking and nicotine dependence in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional national survey of a sample of 5148 of Saudi residents' ages 18 years or older was conducted through web-based-computer assisted telephone interviews. The two main measurements were current cigarette smoking status and nicotine dependence assessed using the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence. Data was weighted by age, gender, and region to account for the different probabilities of selection. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to assess cigarette smoking and nicotine dependence determinants. Results The national prevalence of cigarette smoking was 16.18% (95% CI:14.59-17.77) with 14.12% (95% CI:12.64-15.59) current daily smoking prevalence. Almost 72% of smokers started smoking before the age of 22 and 27% of smokers were highly dependent on nicotine. Having a smoker parent (AOR=1.84[95%CI:1.31-2.58], P < 0.001) or a smoker close friend (AOR=6.49[95%CI:3.89-10.81], P < 0.001) were significantly associated with being a smoker. Higher nicotine dependence level was significantly associated with early onset of regular smoking (ages<18) (AOR=2.71 [95%CI:1.38-5.34],P<0.001) and lower attempting to quit (AOR=0.51[95% CI:0.32-0.83],P<0.01). Conclusions Cigarettes smoking and nicotine dependence are prevalent in Saudi Arabia. The study found the majority of smokers started regular smoking before the age of 22 and the early onset of smoking was associated with a higher nicotine dependence level. Restrict access to tobacco products to those below the age of 22 will help reduce smoking prevalence and lifetime addiction to nicotine. Key messages Majority of smokers initiated smoking by the age of 21 and early regular smoking initiation was associated with higher nicotine dependence. Strategies to prevent initiation before the age of 21 will help prevent addiction to nicotine.