ABSTRACT
Abstract@#Introduction: Total restriction on smoking in the home is an effective tool to reduce Second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure in private dwellings. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of total smoking restrictions in Malaysian homes and factors associated with its adoption. Methods: We analyzed data from a cross-sectional, household study – the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2011, which involved a representative sample of Malaysian adults. Factors associated with the adoption of a totally smoke free home policy was determined by multivariable logistic regression. Results: Out of the 4250 respondents studied, 40.9% (95% CI 38.1-43.8) adopted a total smoking restriction within their homes. Adoption of total smoke-free home policy was significantly higher among Chinese and Indians, those without smokers in the house, non-smokers and government employees. The likelihood of adopting the total smoking restriction at home was lower among current smokers, of Malay ethnicity, low education attainment, having at least one house member who smoked, residing in rural areas, single or widow/widower/divorcee, those working in the private sector or self-employed. Conclusions: Less than half of Malaysian households implemented a total smoking restriction in their residence. Targeted activities to encourage the adoption of voluntary smoke-free rules among groups least likely to implement 100% smoking restrictions in the home are urgently needed with participation of all stakeholders to ensure its success.