Awareness towards the thirdhand smoke and new- generation tobacco products in a health-science based college campus in Turkiye

Abstract

Background and Aims: Thirdhand smoke (THS), as a newly emerging environmental health concern, refers to the residual toxic chemicals left on surfaces and in dust after tobacco smoke has dissipated, posing potential health risks even in smoke-free environments. It has a major impact on public health along with new generation tobacco products (NGTP). This study aims to evaluate the smoking habits, awareness of the THS concept, and knowledge level about NGTPs of Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University campus, a health-science-based college in Türkiye, to develop safer and sustainable campus strategies. Methods: The evaluation was performed via an online survey (Google Forms) that was voluntarily applied to university students and academic staff at Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University between March and May 2023. The questions were designed to measure lifestyle and social factors such as demographic characteristics, smoking levels, secondhand smoke (SHS) and THS awareness and knowledge about NGTPs as well as to clarify campus recognition. Results: Based on the findings, 46.0% (n=177) of the participants were smokers, and 54.0% (n=208) were non-smokers. Most participants had never heard of THS (73.8%), but were aware of the possible public health hazards with a moderate Beliefs About Thirdhand Smoke (BATHS) score, 35.97 ± 7.38. Surprisingly, there was no distinct difference in the knowledge of e-cigarette content as well as the NGTP among students. Conclusion: Even though passive and active smoking is well known by people, it is crucial to emphasise THS to inform people fighting against tobacco. Our results showed that there is a noticeable lack of knowledge and awareness about THS, e-cigarettes and NGTP, and further studies on these topics are needed for smoke-free campuses and stronger anti-smoking policies.

Keywords

• Thirdhand smoke
• Passive smoking
• Public awareness
• Environmental pollution

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