Frequency and related factors of smoking in high school girls in Kermanshah (2004)

Background: Smoking is an important risk factor for many and may decrease quality and quantity life. This study was performed to determine the prevalence and related factors of the smoking in high school girls in Kermanshah in year 2004.

Methods: The random- cluster sampling method was used in a descriptive–analytic designed study. 3150 girl students from three educational area of Kermanshsh city were selected. Data was collection using the WHO recommended screening questionnaire for Global Youths Tobacco Survey (GYTS) after obtaining consent from all participants. SPSS softwar and statistical tests such as t-test and χ² was used for data analyzing.

Results: 15% of the high school girls in Kermanshah had experienced cigarette smoking. The mean of the smokergirls age was 16.36±1.17 and the mean age of the first experiences was 13.99 ± 2.07 year. 42.6% of smokers said that their friend encourage was the most important factor to start smoking. There was a significant negative correlation between smoking and girl’s knowledge about smoking side effects (P<0.001).

Conclusion: An appropriate educational programs and living with non-smoker families is necessary to prevent the initiation of smoking in high school-aged girls. In order to combat with the problem, interventional studies to improve of high school girl’s knowledge about smoking side effects is highly recommended.