Survey of tobacco consumption behavior and factors affecting smoking behavior of students at Bangkokthonburi University

Abstract

Tobacco consumption is a significant risk factor that affects health, contributing to various diseases, especially non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Smoking also negatively impacts oral health, including teeth and gums. The researchers aimed to study tobacco consumption behavior and the factors influencing smoking behavior among students at Bangkokthonburi University. Adolescents experience changes in physical, mental, and social aspects, with fluctuating moods and stress. If not managed properly, they may turn to smoking to relieve stress and may hold misconceptions about the effects of smoking. The survey was conducted with 583 respondents, and 478 of them provided complete data for analysis. Data analysis using SPSS revealed that the most selected tobacco product was e-cigarettes, with 52.2% of respondents, an average score of 4.34, and a standard deviation (SD) of 0.78. This indicated that the majority of respondents agreed with the establishment of designated smoking areas. Additionally, most respondents were aware of the dangers of traditional cigarettes, but a smaller number were unaware that e-cigarettes are also harmful. As a result, their attitude led most of them to choose e-cigarettes over traditional cigarettes. The findings of this study provide essential data that can be used in planning preventive measures and solutions to smoking problems among adolescents, as well as in promoting awareness of the dangers of tobacco use in society.