Demographic and socioeconomic determinants of smoking in the Biyem-Assi health district, Yaoundé, Cameroon

Abstract

Background There is a rise in the trend of tobacco smoking in Cameroon. The objective of the study was to investigate the demographic and socioeconomic determinants of smoking behaviour in the population of Biyem-Assi health district thereby estimating the prevalence of smoking in the district. Methods A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted on a sample size of 510 people. Data were collected using structured questionnaires on the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of smoking in the Biyem-Assi health district. A multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted at 95% (p<0.05) confidence interval to identify the characteristics of smoking. Results The age range for the sampled population was 18-75. The study showed smoking prevalence of 38.75%. From the multiple logistic regressions, men were more likely to smoke than women (AOR: 6.02; 95% CI: 2.24-16.17). The respondents less than or equal to 35 years were 55% less likely to smoke than those above 35 (AOR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.22-0.93), while those working with the informal sector were more likely to engage in smoking than those of the formal sector (AOR: 2.59; 95% CI: 1.25-5.38). The respondents who had friends or relatives who smoke were more likely to smoke (AOR: 24.56; 95% CI: 8.92-67.63) and those who believed public campaigns could prevent smoking were 75% less likely to smoke (AOR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.12-.053). The respondents who were targeted by the regulation of smoking-free public places were 83% less likely to smoke (0.17; 95% CI: 0.07-.039). Conclusions The prevalence of smoking in the Biyem-Assi health district is high. Gender, age, occupation and having friends and relatives who smoke are highly associated with smoking behaviour.

Keywords

• WCTOH