Prevalence and determinants of tobacco smoking among college students in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

Abstract

Globally, tobacco consumption represents a critical threat to public health, contributing to a range of preventable diseases (WHO). In Burkina Faso, as many nations with limited economic resources, tobacco use among young people, particularly college students, is an emerging issue with serious implications for public health (STEPS). This research seeks to examine the rate of tobacco use and explore the key factors influencing smoking behavior among college students in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. By examining the factors related with the uptake of tobacco in this population, the study seeks to provide insights that could inform targeted health interventions. A survey was conducted among students enrolled in four higher education institutions in Bobo-Dioulasso. Authorization was granted by the schools and from respondents themselves to conduct the study. To ensure representativeness, a stratified random sampling technique was utilized to recruit participants, and data collection was conducted using self-completed questionnaires, by a total of 387 college students, which gathered information on family and environmental influence, demographic factors, and potential determinants such as peer influence, and exposure to tobacco advertising. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were employed to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed a smoking prevalence of 6.2% among college students in Bobo-Dioulasso, with boys smoking more than girls, suggesting the situation is alarming. Factors such as peer pressure and living with smoker in a family were identified as key factors influencing smoking behavior among college students. Tobacco smoking among college students in Bobo-Dioulasso represents a growing public health challenge. The findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions that focus on the specific factors identified in the study, such as peer influence and family influence. Comprehensive tobacco control strategies, including education campaigns and policy implementation, are essential to reduce smoking prevalence and its associated health risks in this population.