ASSESSING THE PREVALENCE OF CIGARETTE SMOKING AMONG ADULT MALES IN RURAL PUNJAB LAHORE

Abstract

Background: Cigarette smoking remains a major public health concern in Pakistan, contributing to high morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular, respiratory, and cancer-related diseases. Rural populations are particularly vulnerable due to low health literacy, limited cessation resources, and socio-cultural norms that normalize tobacco use. Understanding the prevalence and determinants of smoking in these settings is essential for targeted interventions.

Aim: To assess the prevalence of cigarette smoking among adult males in rural Punjab, Lahore, and identify factors associated with smoking initiation and continuation.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted in Raiwind, a rural area near Lahore, involving 100 adult male participants aged 18 years and above. A multistage cluster sampling technique was employed. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO (1977) survey tool, covering socio-demographic details, smoking status, consumption patterns, and reasons for initiation. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0.

Results: The prevalence of current smokers was 54%, with 16% former smokers and 30% never smokers. Peer influence was the most reported reason for initiation (38.9%), followed by stress relief (22.2%), curiosity (16.7%), family influence (13.0%), and easy availability/low cost (9.2%). Smoking was more common among younger adults aged 18–34 and those with lower educational attainment.

Conclusion: Cigarette smoking prevalence among rural adult males in Punjab is alarmingly high, driven largely by peer and social influences. Tailored community-based prevention and cessation interventions are urgently needed to address this public health issue.