Prevalence of Smoking among Dental Students in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Abstract

Background: Smoking has long reported to cause oral cancer. Dental professionals are responsible to advice on both smoking cessation and prevention as the effects of smoking are easily identify within the oral examination. This however may develop some conflict if they themselves own a habit of tobacco use.

Aim: This study is to determine the prevalence of smoking among dental student in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the factors associated with their smoking habit.

Methods: Data on smoking habits, smoking factors, cessation plan and sociodemographic status were collected and analysed using SPSS version 24.0.

Conclusions:  Less than 7% of total undergraduate dental students at USM is a current smoker. All of them are well-addressed about the awareness and cessation of smoking habits from the dental school curriculum and university’s program. However, having close friends who are smokers may influence the smoking habits.