Abstract:

Background With the increasing prevalence of the use of nicotine products in educational institutions by the young generation, this research investigates the prevalence and awareness of nicotine products at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University in Islamabad, Pakistan. It explores demographics, consumption patterns, and perceptions related to nicotine products. Methods This study was conducted at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, from March 2022 to August 2023. Individuals aged 18 or older of both genders, including students from the university and Shifa Medical College, as well as healthcare employees and teachers who had consented to participate and had a history of nicotine product usage, were included. Results The sample size was 320, with most being students (83.0%) with a mean age of 22.31 years, predominantly using cigarettes (57.5%), followed by e-cigarettes (23.4%). Participants reported exposure mainly to university (41%) and college (37%). Usage frequency varied, with 34.7% using nicotine products once daily, 32.5% 2-3 times daily, 20.6% 4-6 times daily, and 12.2% more than seven times daily. Peer pressure had a moderate influence (mean rating of 5.96), and a significant association was found between gender and nicotine product usage (p=0.003). Preferences favoured modern nicotine products (n: 233) over conventional ones (n: 87), but no linear trend was observed. Health impact perception was linked to willingness to quit; 167 believed their health was affected and were willing to quit, while 48 hesitated, and 79 were indecisive (p=0.009), with a linear trend (p<0.05). Conclusion This study illuminated nicotine usage patterns, thus informing public health efforts to reduce consumption.

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