Awareness of second hand tobacco smoke among high school students studying in the rural field practice area of raja rajeswari medical college and hospital, Bengaluru

Abstract

Background: More than 600, 000 non-smokers die each year from breathing second-hand smoke (SHS). The exposure to SHS has been associated with poor health outcomes such as cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a range of cancers. Children exposed to SHS are also at risk of middle ear disease and lower respiratory illnesses. Though a number of studies have been done assessing the awareness and practices of smokers on smoking, not many studies have focused on the non-smoking population, especially children. In this study, we have assessed the perceptions and practices of children on their exposure to secondary smoking.Materials and Methods: A Descriptive study was conducted among all the high school students. Data was collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire by the students present on the day of data collection. Health education was given to these students regarding passive smoking after the data collection.Results: Of the 185 students who participated in the study 62% were males and 38% were females and a total of 93% belonged to rural area. It was found that 63% were aware that smoking was injurious to health and 79% were aware that SHS is also harmful, but only 32% were aware of legislation (COTPA act) by the government being present for a smoke-free environment.