Abstract
Background: Smoking is an established risk factors for many diseases and is one of the most
important public health problems worldwide. The WHO has stated clearly that health professionals
can have a significant influence on the smoking habits of a community.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence of cigarette smoking among healthcare providers in Al-Hilla
city and the association between smoking and different variables.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done from April, 2011 through May, 2011 in three major
hospitals and four primary healthcare centers in Al-Hilla city. Data collection was done using an
anonymous, self-administered questionnaire.
Results: The study included 545 health care professionals. The mean age and standard deviation of
the study group is 35 ± 9.7. The male:female ratio is 2.2:1. The prevalence of current cigarette
smokers among male physicians, pharmacists, and paramedics are 30.9%, 40%, 23.4%, respectively.
The overall prevalence among male health professionals is 26%. While the current cigarette smoking
rate is 1.6% among female healthcare providers. Sixty four percent of smokers started their cigarette
smoking habit at the age range 10-20 years. About 1/3 of them smoke one cigarette pack or more per
day (heavy smokers). And half of them smoked for more than 10 years. 1/3 of the study group had
participated in seminars or courses against smoking habit.
Conclusion: in conclusion, we found that the prevalence rate of cigarette smoking was higher than
expected for persons who understand the related problems of smoking.
moking is an established risk
factor for many diseases and is
one of the most important public
health problems worldwide [1].
Smoking is a major preventable cause
of morbidity and mortality [2]. It is
associated with a wide range of
diseases: pulmonary, gastrointestinal
and cardiovascular diseases and
different kinds of cancers [3]. It has
been reported that smokers die earlier
than nonsmokers [4].
Although many of the adverse
health effects of tobacco occur later in
life, smoking has health implications
for young people [5] and is associated
with other high-risk behaviors among
young people including abuse of other
drugs, fighting and inappropriate
social behaviors[6].