Tobacco Behavior, Attitude, Knowledge and Cessation among a Vulnerable Nigerian Population Who Smoke

Abstract

Limited studies in Nigeria have specifically evaluated smoking attitude, behavior, and willingness to quit smoking among smokers only in any population. This study aimed to assess the tobacco behavior, attitude, knowledge, and cessation among commercial motorcycle riders who currently smoke cigarettes. Data on 64 current smokers' smoking behavior, attitude, knowledge, and cessation were extracted from a larger study that examined the relationship between tobacco use and oral health status. The study was multi-staged and cross-sectional in which participants' smoking history was collected using an interviewer-based survey. About 62% of current smokers used other forms of tobacco in addition to cigarettes. The average current smoker began smoking at the age of 17.8 (±5.63) years and was introduced to the habit by a friend or peer (96.8%). More than half of current smokers thought quitting once they got into the habit would be difficult. About 92% of current smokers lack adequate and relevant knowledge about tobacco, its use, and its health implications. Two-thirds of current smokers wanted to quit smoking right away. About half of the smokers had made at least one attempt to quit smoking in the previous year. Approximately 60% had never received help to quit smoking. A health professional had never spoken to 67% of them about their smoking habit and its implications. Although our findings revealed smokers' poor knowledge and attitude toward smoking, the high motivation to quit smoking calls for the development and implementation of smoking cessation interventions among this vulnerable population.