BACKGROUND: This study investigates smoking behavior among Indonesian students to understand key drivers and propose interventions for prevention. Using a nationwide survey, it examines the prevalence, underlying social and environmental factors, and the role of regulations in shaping students' smoking habits. The research aims to provide evidence-based recommendations to curb youth smoking in Indonesia.
METHODS: The study surveyed 1.275 junior and senior high school students across 175 districts/cities in Indonesia, employing a random sampling method with a 2.8% margin of error. Data on smoking behavior, initiation age, family influence, advertisement exposure, and access to cigarettes were collected through structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses identified correlations between these factors and smoking prevalence among students.
RESULTS: The findings reveal that 27.8% of students have tried smoking, with 10.7% being daily smokers. The most common age for smoking initiation is 15 years. Advertisement exposure influences 93.65% of students, fostering positive perceptions of smoking. Family influence is significant, as 63.97% of students report smoking because their parents do. Weak enforcement of purchase regulations, including lack of age verification by sellers, facilitates easy access to cigarettes. Students express strong support for smoke-free area policies (KTR) and advertising bans, indicating awareness of preventive measures.
CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of cigarette sales regulations, comprehensive health education, and active family involvement to reduce smoking prevalence among students. Strengthening smoke-free policies and restricting tobacco advertising are critical steps to mitigate the influence of environmental factors. These findings advocate for multi-sectoral interventions to protect Indonesian youth from the adverse effects of smoking and promote a healthier, smoke-free generation.