Determinants of Smoking Initiation Among Undergraduate Medical Students in Central India: A Cross-Sectional Study

TL;DR

This study identifies factors influencing smoking among medical students in central India, highlighting the role of emotional distress, peer influence, and support systems.

Contribution

The study provides insights into psychosocial and demographic determinants of smoking initiation among medical students in central India.

Findings

Smoking was more common among male students aged 20-22 years.

Emotional distress, curiosity, peer interactions, and academic pressure were key reasons for smoking initiation.

Family and medical support were significantly associated with quitting smoking.

Abstract

Background: Tobacco use continues to pose a major health challenge in India, and undergraduate medical students form a particularly important group because of their future role in patient care and health promotion. Understanding what influences their smoking habits is crucial for guiding preventive strategies. This study explored the key factors linked to smoking behaviour among undergraduate medical students.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based observational study was designed to find determinants of smoking in undergraduate medical students from various colleges in central India. Participation was voluntary, and responses were collected anonymously after obtaining consent.

Results: A total of 489 students responded to the survey. Most participants were male and in their early 20s. Smoking was more common among young male undergraduate students in the age group of 20-22 years. Emotional distress, curiosity, peer interactions, and academic pressure were among the most frequently reported reasons for initiating or continuing smoking. The result showed that family and medical support were significantly related to quitting smoking among undergraduate medical students.

Conclusion: Smoking behaviour among undergraduate medical students appears to be shaped by both demographic characteristics and psychosocial influences. While no single factor independently predicted smoking, family and medical support may be the key factors in helping individuals to quit smoking. Strengthening support systems, stress-management initiatives, and counselling services may help foster healthier, tobacco-free habits among future healthcare professionals.