Survey of smoking knowledge, attitudes and practice in school children in Honduras

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study was to survey Honduran pre-adolescent knowledge, perceptions and experience regarding smoking. Methods. A 12-item survey was administered in the classroom to fifth and sixth grade students. The main outcome measures were a description of demographic factors, personal smoking experience, knowledge of health risks, attitudes about tobacco use and perceived sources of information. Results. A total of 225 students were surveyed. The majority were aware that smoking is bad for health, and most reported never having smoked. Most viewed smoking as ugly. Friends and family were selected as the major source of information. Conclusions. School children in this area of Honduras are aware of the health risks of smoking and view smoking as unattractive.