Intention To Quit Tobacco Smoking And Its Predictors Among Adult Male Smokers At Singur, West Bengal

Background: Tobacco is the single most preventable cause of death and disability. Quitting tobacco use at any age will help in improving the quality of health. Objective: To find out the intention to quit tobacco smoking and its predictors among adult male smokers. Methodology: A cross–sectional clinic based study was conducted for 2 months (July–august 2017) among 123 adult male current smokers. Nicotine dependence was assessed using Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence (FTND) questionnaire and intention to quit tobacco smoking and its various predictors were assessed using structured schedule. Logistic regression was done to establish association. Results: Intention to quit tobacco smoking significantly associated with higher educational status (AOR=3.04. CI=1.32–6.98),low nicotine dependence(AOR=3.85, CI=1.52–9.73),less duration of tobacco smoking( AOR=2.33, CI=1.02–5.31),previous H/O quit attempts (AOR=2.73, CI=1.17–6.32) Conclusion: The low rate of quitting intention among adult smokers underscore the need for comprehensive policy initiatives that would encourage smokers to think about quitting. Keywords: Tobacco smoking, Nicotine dependence, Intention to quit smoking

Knowledge And Practices Of Pregnant Women Regarding Iron And Folic Acid Supplementation At Singur, West Bengal

Background: Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy as it is associated with increased maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Objective: To study the knowledge and practices of pregnant women regarding IFA supplementation during pregnancy. Methodology :A cross–sectional study was conducted for 2 months (May –July 2017) among 108 pregnant women in their third trimester attending the antenatal at Singur. Knowledge and practice assessed using structured schedule. Logistic regression was done to establish association. Results : Poor knowledge significantly associated with lower age(AOR= 0.80,CI=0.67–0.95), lower educational status( AOR= 3.75, CI= 1.5–9.34),lower per capita income ( AOR= 3.09, CI= 1.24–7.72). Poor practice associated lower educational status(AOR=3.30, CI=1.45–7.53) and improper guidance from health–care worker(AOR=3.15, CI=1.29–7.72) Conclusions : The present study indicated poor knowledge and practice regarding IFA supplementation. So intensive counselling, motivation and implementing this into practice would help in reducing the incidence of anemia during pregnancy.