Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Waterpipe Smoking among Health Science Students at King Abdulaziz University, 2016: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective:  Waterpipe smoking is one of many methods of smoking and is a traditional habit in the Middle East. Waterpipe smoking produces toxins similar to those in cigarette smoke and is associated with substantial health risks. Th e aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of waterpipe smoking among medical students, to evaluate their attitudes, motivations and knowledge about the hazardous effects. Methods:  This cross-sectional study of King Abdulaziz University Health Science students required a sample size of 700 participants. Th e participants were selected using the multi-stage stratified random sampling technique, and a validated self-administered questionnaire in English was used. Th e study was conducted from 24 April 2016 to 15 May 2016. Results:  Seven hundred twenty-one participants (325 (45.1%) males and 396 (54.9%) females) were selected for analysis. The prevalence of waterpipe smoking was 16.1%. The most common motives for smoking were socialization with friends, relaxation and taste, and most of the students were aware of the effects of waterpipe smoking on health. Conclusion:  There is a high prevalence of waterpipe smoking among medical students. Sharing waterpipes with others was common, particularly among males, and the majority of students thought that they could quit this habit.