Prevalence and Other Correlates of Ever Smoking in Saudi Arabia: Results of a National Survey

• Main Authors: Lamiaa Z. Abuzaid, Abdelshakour M. Abdalla
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Alexandria University 2016-06-01
• Series: Journal of High Institute of Public Health
• Subjects: ever smoking; prevalence; socio-demographic characteristics; adults; saudi arabia

Background: Updated information on prevalence of ever smoking and its related factors is necessary for planning smoking control programs. Objective(s): The current study aimed at assessing the prevalence and identifying the associated factors and predictors of ever cigarette smoking among the Saudi adult population. Methods: The current study was a secondary analysis of the cross-sectional community-based survey conducted by the WHO in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Health in 2005 using WHO STEP wise approach. A multistage, stratified, cluster random sampling was applied to select a total sample of 5000 Saudi adults aged 15 to 64 years. The interview questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristics, status of smoking, and physical activity pattern. Blood pressure, weight and height were measured. Blood samples were drawn for assessment of fasting blood sugar, total and HDL cholesterol. Results: The prevalence of ever smoking was 21.6%. Just over half of the subjects were females, about 23% less than 25 years, while about 11% more than 55 years of age. Ever smoking was significantly associated with male gender, younger age, and lower education and income levels. Of all study subjects 12.5% were categorized as ever smokers and practicing low level of physical activity. Additionally, 15.2% were categorized as ever smokers and non-obese. Ever smoking was significantly associated with low physical activity and non-obesity. No significant association between ever smoking and hypertension, diabetes mellitus or cholesterol level was found. The significant predictors of ever smoking were male gender and lower educational level. Conclusion: Ever smoking was prevalent among Saudi adult population indicating a need to develop community-based and effective tobacco control programs to reduce this risk.