Prevalence and determinants of tobacco use among youth in Myanmar: review of findings from Global Youth Tobacco Survey 2016 Data

• Main Authors: Aung Tun, Thuzar Chit Tin, Mya Lay Nwe, Nan Naing Naing Shein, Sanda Kyaw Yin, Phyu The Han
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: European Publishing 2018-03-01
• Series: Tobacco Induced Diseases
• Subjects: WCTOH
• Online Access: http://www.journalssystem.com/tid/Prevalence-and-determinants-of-tobacco-use-among-youth-in-Myanmar-review-of-findings,84139,0,2.html

Background The study aims to reassess the health, knowledge and practice of students, (9-11 Grades) after the introduction of New National Tobacco Control program for 5 years. This study includes data on prevalence of cigarettes and other tobacco use as well as information on five determinants of tobacco use: access, exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS), cessation, media and advertising, and other indicators. Methods Myanmar GYTS uses a two-stage sample design with schools selected proportional to enrolment size. A total of 3633 eligible students in grades 9-11 completed the survey ,of which 2621 were aged 13-15 years Results Between 2011 and 2016, a reduction in the proportion of students currently use any tobacco products is observed (a fall from overall prevalence among 13-15 year olds of 18.6% to 14%). but currently smoked cigarettes had increased during the period from 6.8% to 8.3%. Currently use any smokeless tobacco products had decreased (9.8% to 5.7%). 74.5% of current smokers tried to stop smoking in the past 12 months.33.2% are exposed to tobacco smoke at home as well as 28.4% are exposed tobacco smoke inside any enclosed public place. 61% of current cigarette smokers bought cigarettes from a store, shop or street vendors. 42.3% of students noticed tobacco advertisements on point of sale. 65% of students thought other people's smoking is harmful to them. Conclusions Myanmar Youth Tobacco program should strengthen in all schools to be 100% tobacco-free and also incorporate training of school personnel on tobacco control, specifically youth-focused programs as joint efforts between Ministry of Health and Sports and Ministry of Education in collaboration with related ministries. Enforcement of the national legislation on tobacco control needs to be strengthened, and the National Tobacco Control Program needs to be more comprehensive incorporating measures to reduce smokeless tobacco use and other non-cigarette tobacco products.