Knowledge and Awareness of Smoking on Oral Health among Non-Medical Students in Salem District

Abstract

Introduction Smoking is a global health concern not only for respiratory health but also for an oral health which includes oral cancer and gum disease. Smoking recently has become a common habit developed by early adolescence. AIM: To assess the knowledge and awareness of smoking on oral health among non-medical students in Salem district. Material and Methods A set of questions approved by the two experts were used to assess the awareness and effects of smoking on oral health. The sample will include all the non-medical students under the age of 18-24 years. The objective of the study is to communicate them, and the volunteers were asked to complete the questionnaire. The questionnaire is divided into three sections; demographic details of education level and location, awareness about the effects of smoking on oral health and willingness to participate in smoking cessation program to quit smoking. Results Out of 1000 students 997 completed the questionnaire. The participants were between the age group of 18-24 years. 43.7% participants accepted that smoking can cause tooth staining, around 46% know about smoking cause gum diseases and only 36% responded about its cause for delayed wound healing and 63% know that smoking can cause cancer. Among the participants 60.2% family member smoke and only 27.1% were willing to recommend them for smoking cessation program. Conclusion Public awareness initiates when the young adults are educated priorly. Hence awareness and knowledge of effects of smoking on oral health among young adults will help in eradicating the smoking habit from the society. Key Words Non-medical students, Oral health, Smoking, Tobacco