Tobacco use and associated factors among university students in Thailand

Background: Tobacco smoking remains a major public health concern as it is a leading cause of serious illness and premature deaths worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of smoking among university students in Thailand and identify associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in five public universities in Thailand. The inclusion criteria were current enrollment in the university and age >= 18 years. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information about sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status, and knowledge and attitudes toward smoking. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with smoking. Results: Of a total of 1,299 students included, 28.2% were smokers, 76.5% in males and 23.5% in females. Being male, aged between 21 and 22 years, enrolled in a non-science major, living off campus, having a family member or friend who smoked, having a favorable attitude toward smoking, and having a moderate attitude toward smoking were significantly associated with being a smoker. However, knowledge about smoking was not a significant influencing factor. Conclusions: A high prevalence of smoking among university students was reported in our study. Our findings should be taken into consideration when developing programs to prevent smoking among this young social group.