CIGARETTE SMOKING AMONG FULL-TIME HIGHER STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA

Background Cigarette smoking is a well documented, common and avoidable cause of morbidities and mortalities among students and young people every year globally. The use of cigarette is on the increase in developing countries like Nigeria. Since students make up a very important segment of the society, it is very important to explore the use cigarette extensively among them. Methods We investigated the smoking of cigarettes among 3rd and 4th year students from different faculties in the University of Abuja. This was a cross-sectional study in which 600 students were randomly selected to participate. The instruments were made up of a socio-demographic questionnaire and the World Health Organization (WHO) questionnaire for student drug use surveys. Data was analysed using SPSS- 16. Results The lifetime and current prevalence of cigarette smoking were 23.8% and 14% respectively. These were higher among male students, adolescents/ young adults and those from polygamous and/or dysfunctional homes. No significant association was found with tribe, religion or year of study. While students are aware of the harmful effects of smoking, they have difficulties stopping the habit. Conclusion The rates of lifetime and current cigarette smoking among university students are high. Appropriate measures and interventions have to be instituted to address these issues.