Determinants of smoking cessation in academic institution: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia

Title : Determinants of smoking cessation in academic institution: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract:

Introduction: Given the significant health risks and adverse effects associated with smoking, there is considerable health benefits linked to smoking cessation. This study aimed to assess the determinants of smoking cessation and its association with socio-demographic characteristics of smokers.

Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design to examine the determinants of smoking cessation among students,faculty members, and employees at the University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia between August 2024 and April 2025. The study included adult students, faculty, and employees at the University of Bisha. Data were collected through web-based self-administered survey, then analyzed using SPSS Version 29.

Results: The study enrolled a total of 533 participants, of whom 113 (21.2%) were either smokers or ex-smokers. The most common reason for smoking initiation was fun (52, 46.0%), while health concerns were the primary reason for smoking cessation (52, 46.0%). Statistically significant associations were found between participants’ gender, daily smoking, frequency of smoking, and smoking cessation (p = 0.030, p = 0.009, and p = 0.023). The study found several significant factors associated smoking cessation including: daily smoking [AOR=9.82; 95% Confidence Interval (C.1)=1.259–76.605; p=0.029], gender [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR)=4.74; 95% CI= 1.040–21.627;p=0.044], monthly income [AOR=2.00 95% CI=1.080–3.694;p=0.028], frequency of smoking [AOR=0.57;95% CI= 0.347–0.923; p=0.023] and occupation [AOR=0.34; 95% CI=0.117–0.991; p=0.048].

Conclusion: The study identified daily smoking, gender, monthly income, frequency of smoking and occupation as key determinants of smoking cessation among the population. It was observed that females, non-daily smokers and those who smoked less than 10 cigarettes were more likely to quit smoking. Most smokers reported being motivated to start smoking for fun, while health concerns were the most common reason for quitting. These findings suggest a need for tailored smoking cessation programs within academic institutions that consider these factors.

Key words: Smoking Cessation, Determinants, Intervention, Bisha, Saudi Arabia.

Biography:

Abdulaziz Faleh Alshahrani A sixth-year medical student at the University of Bisha, College of Medicine, Saudi Arabia. He is the President of the Medical Club and founder of the Research Community at the college. His academic interests include public health, smoking cessation, and preventive medicine. He has led numerous community health initiatives and research projects promoting awareness and behavioralchange. Passionate about community well-being, he actively contributes to improving public health through education and advocacy. He aspires to become a leader in public health and medical education.