Socioeconomic Level and Young Medical Smokers; A Reaction to Peer Pressure

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the smoking behaviour of medical students and its association with socioeconomic status.
It also evaluates the role of peer pressure in the initiation of smoking behaviour. A descriptive cross-sectional study was
conducted, and 800 students participated from different medical colleges of Peshawar. Study duration was from January 2019-
March 2020. The respondents filled a questionnaire which was developed to assess the smoking behaviour, peer pressure and
association of smoking with the socioeconomic status of the medical students. The results were significant. Out of 800 medical
students, 500 were smokers. Peer pressure was the leading cause of smoking behaviour and prevails in the middle socioeconomic
status (SES) of the students. Similarly, the middle and high SES medical students were heavy smokers in comparison to low SES
students. The students were agreed to quit smoking, but they perceived no support. There are a significantly increased number of
medical students involved in smoking behaviour. Should be rehabilitation programs for the students. The authorities should
provide support to the students who are tempted to quit smoking.