Factors Influencing Knowledge and Attitudes towards Second-Hand Smoking Exposure Among University Students: An Exploratory Study.

Abstract

Despite extensive global research on second-hand smoking (SHS) exposure, there is a noticeable lack of studies focusing on the knowledge and attitudes of university students in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study aimed to address this gap by assessing the levels of knowledge and attitudes towards SHS exposure among university students in Bangladesh. Utilizing a convenience sampling technique, data were collected from 383 university students, encompassing socio-demographic information, as well as knowledge and attitude-related inquiries. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software, including independent t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple linear regression. The findings revealed that participants exhibited a moderate level of knowledge and attitude towards SHS exposure. Multiple linear regression identified age, gender, mother's education, and self-rated health status as significant predictors of knowledge, explaining 12.9% of its variance (R² = 0.129, F = 6.117, P < .001). Furthermore, age, gender, and living with parents emerged as significant predictors of attitude, explaining 14.7% of its variance (R² = 0.147, F = 7.165, P < .001). The study highlights the need for interventions aimed at enhancing awareness and fostering positive attitudes towards SHS exposure among university students in Bangladesh. It is recommended that university authorities organize seminars and implement health education initiatives targeting vulnerable populations to address the findings and promote a smoke-free environment on campus.