Prevalence and Perception of Smoking among Medical Students: A Crosssectional Survey-based Study from a Sudanese University

Introduction: Smoking among medical students is a public health concern, as these future healthcare providers play a crucial role in tobacco cessation. Aim: To examine the prevalence and perception of smoking among medical students in Sudan, with a focus on the sociodemographic factors influencing smoking behaviour. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2015 and July 2015 among medical students at Sudan International University located in Khartoum, Sudan. A total of 394 students were included in the study. Smoking behaviour and perceptions were analysed using a modified United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) survey, which included only the questions related to smoking. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, and a Chi-square test was applied to identify associations, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 394 participants, 27 (6.9%) were current smokers, with smoking rates significantly higher among males 26 (17.2%) compared to females 1 (0.4%). Smoking prevalence was also higher among older students, with 5 (16.1%) of those aged ≥25 and 16 (10.7%) of clinical-stage students being current smokers. Strong disapproval of heavy smoking was noted among 234 (59.4%) of the students, especially among females (169, 70.1%). Students living with non relatives reported higher smoking rates, with 5 (50%) being ever smokers and 3 (30%) currently smoking, compared to those living with parents or relatives. Additionally, students living alone were less likely (n=4, 20%) to disapprove heavy smoking compared to their counterparts, with disapproval rates ranging between 50% and 65% for different categories. Conclusion: Smoking was more prevalent among males, older individuals and clinical-stage students, while perceptions of smoking vary by age and gender. These findings underline the need for targeted smoking prevention initiatives within medical schools that address gender- and age-related factors. Tailored interventions can better equip future healthcare providers in Sudan for effective tobacco cessation advocacy.