Cigarette Smoking in Pakistani Medical Students from Clinical vs. Nonclinical Years: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Sharjeel Mahmood¹, Hina Pasha¹, Aymen Shafiq², Zaid Wali², Zurmeen Lodhi², Adeela Shahid¹, Saadia Kanwal¹, Anusha Bader³

1. Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore.
2. Gujranwala Medical College, Gujranwala.
3. Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore.

Corresponding Author: Dr Sharjeel Mahmood, Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore.

Abstract:

Background: Medical students are future health advocates; their tobacco use undermines public health messaging. This study assessed the prevalence of smoking and associated factors among medical undergraduates in Lahore and Gujranwala, Pakistan.

Methods: Cross-sectional, multicentric online survey of undergraduate medical students using a structured questionnaire. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses identified predictors of current smoking.

Results: Of 300 respondents, 80 (26.7%) were current smokers. Family member smoking (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.8–4.7) and higher pocket money (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.8) were independent predictors. The top reasons for initiation were peer influence, stress relief, and curiosity.

Conclusion: Smoking remains prevalent among Pakistani medical students. Familial exposure and disposable income are key correlates warranting targeted interventions.

Keywords: medical students; tobacco; smoking; Pakistan; prevalence; risk factors