Impact of a Self-instructional Module on Passive Smoking Awareness among College Students in India: An Intervention Study

Abstract Background: Passive smoking is a major public health concern in India, increasing second-hand smoke exposure. College students often lack awareness of their health risks. This study evaluated a self-instructional module (SIM) to improve knowledge and examined demographic influences among degree college students in Udaipur, India. Methodology: A cross-sectional intervention study involved 50 participants aged 18–25 from a western Indian city. A 30-item questionnaire assessed knowledge in health effects and prevention domains. Pre-test scores were recorded, followed by a bilingual SIM intervention, with post-test scores collected after 1 week. Paired t -tests evaluated knowledge gains (H 1 ), and Chi-square tests analysed demographic associations (H 2 ). Results: The SIM increased mean knowledge scores by 44.6% (9.71 - 23, P < 0.001), supporting H 1 , with the largest gains in prevention (5.4). High scores (≥21/30) rose from 4% to 62%. Pre-test knowledge was significantly associated with gender, education and prior smoke exposure ( P < 0.05), supporting H 2 . Conclusion: The SIM effectively enhanced knowledge, supporting its integration into India’s National Tobacco Control Programme. Targeted interventions and digital SIM delivery could further reduce exposure.