Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

A study on tobacco use among medical students in Chennai

4^th International Congress on Bacteriology and Infectious Diseases

May 16-18, 2016 San Antonio, USA

Ramkumar B

SRM University, India

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Bacteriol Parasitol

Abstract:

Background: Tobacco epidemic is one of the biggest public health threats the world has ever faced and it is the single largest preventable cause of death and disability worldwide. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use and to measure the extent of knowledge, attitude and behavior of tobacco usage among third year medical students. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted at medical colleges in Chennai. A total of 479 medical students participated in the study. Demographics, prevalence of tobacco use, exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, attitude, behavior/cessation and curriculum/training were collected using GHPSS questionnaire (Global Health Professions Student Survey) and the results were analyzed. Results: The prevalence of ever tried cigarette smoking was 10.9% and ever used smokeless tobacco was 1.9%. The prevalence of current cigarette smoking was 4.8% and current smokeless tobacco use was 1.0%. The prevalence of exposure to smoke at home was 34.2% and at public places was 50.3%. Majority of students were towards banning sale of tobacco products. About 95.2% of the students said health professional should serve as a role model for the patients and get specific training on cessation techniques. Conclusion: The prevalence of tobacco use was high among male students. Majority of the studentsâ?? attitude were to ban tobacco sale.

Biography :

Email: dr.ramkumarb@gmail.com