Understanding Smoking Behaviors, Social Influences and Policy Ineffectiveness: A Study on College Students in Purba Medinipur, West Bengal

Smoking among college students is a growing concern, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas. Smoking, which involves the inhalation of tobacco or other substances like cannabis, is a leading cause of preventable deaths globally. Despite regulations such as the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003 and Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places Rules, 2008, the prevalence of smoking among youth continues to rise, fuelled by factors such as peer pressure, aggressive marketing, low socioeconomic status, and lack of awareness about health risks. This study examines the smoking behaviors of semi-urban and village-dwelling college students in Purba Medinipur, with a focus on understanding the drivers of smoking initiation and its impacts. The findings indicate that peer pressure is the leading factor for the initiation of smoking, with many participants perceiving smoking as a means to gain social status, reinforce group identity, and signal adulthood or rebellion. Stress was also identified as a crucial factor in the continuation and relapse of smoking, supporting previous studies linking tobacco use to stress management. Additionally, the study highlights the easy accessibility of tobacco products in the region and how familial and social influences, particularly from smoking parents and peers, contribute to the normalization of smoking behavior. The research further critiques the effectiveness of the COTPA 2003, noting limited awareness and enforcement in the target population. It calls for a more robust policy framework that addresses social and cultural factors influencing smoking, emphasizing the importance of enhancing self-esteem and communication skills in educational and familial contexts. The study also advocates for targeted interventions for cannabis use among adolescents, suggesting that the legal and social implications of cannabis use should be communicated effectively. The findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach combining educational initiatives, stricter policy enforcement, and mental health support to mitigate smoking-related risks among youth.