Factors Affecting Smoking Discontinuance Among Youth Smokers

This study assessed the factors influencing smoking discontinuance among youth leaders, focusing on their demographic profile, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and perceived interpersonal influences for the Fiscal Year 2025. A total of 100 samples were selected through purposive non-probability sampling. Using weighted mean, standard deviation, t-test for independent samples, One-way ANOVA, and Pearson’s r, the study revealed the following findings: 1) A significant proportion of youth smokers are 20 years old or younger, with males comprising the majority. Most respondents have attained a high school level of education, and smoking is most prevalent among those with moderate incomes; 2) On average, the extent of factors affecting smoking discontinuance is rated as very high across all subcategories; 3) Gender, educational attainment, and average monthly income do not significantly mediate how youth respondents assess the extent of factors affecting smoking discontinuance. However, the variable age showed significant differences, particularly in perceived interpersonal influence; 4) The group of respondents who assessed the factors affecting smoking discontinuance in terms of perceived barriers also rated the perceived interpersonal influences, similarly, indicating a strong connection between these factors; 5) Positive correlations were found between perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and perceived interpersonal influences on smoking cessation. These findings suggest that comprehensive anti-smoking programs addressing these interconnected factors are likely to be most effective in promoting long-term cessation among youth. This study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions that consider both individual motivations and the social dynamics influencing youth smokers. It offers recommendations for stakeholders, including youth, parents, educators, policymakers, and public health officials, to enhance smoking prevention and cessation efforts.