Prevalence of smoking and its association with health-related behaviours among Iranian university students: a large-scale study

Background The prevalence of smoking and contributing factors among Iranian university students has been paid little attention. Aims The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of smoking in Iranian university students and its association with health-related behaviours. Methods This cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 82 806 Iranian university students admitted in 2012-2013. Information on demographic characteristics and health-related behaviours, including physical activity, sleep pattern, use of electronic devices and dietary habits, were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Weight and height were measured using a standard protocol and body mass index calculated. Smokers were defined as students who smoked ≥ 1 cigarette per week. Results Smoking was prevalent among 6.0% of university students (males 6.6%, females 5.6%). Moderate physical activity was inversely associated with odds of smoking. A significant positive association was also found between obesity and odds of being a smoker. Higher intake of fruits and dairy products were associated with lower odds of smoking. However, intake of vegetables, fast foods and carbonated beverages was positively associated with smoking. Breakfast consumption was also associated with greater odds of being a smoker. Conclusions Demographic characteristics and health-related behaviours, including marital status, occupation, economic status, sleep pattern, physical activity, use of electronic devices and dietary intake, were significantly associated with smoking.