Prevalence and predictors of smokeless tobacco use among high-school males in Karachi, Pakistan

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 towns in Karachi, Pakistan to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with the use of smokeless tobacco among 772 high-school adolescent males. A structured questionnaire collected data on sociodemographic factors and history of cigarette and smokeless tobacco use. Prevalence of smokeless tobacco use [gutka, snuff, niswar] was 16.1% [95% CI: 13.5%-18.9%]. On multiple logistic regression analysis, the factors significantly related to smokeless tobacco use among the sample were: attending government school [adjusted odds ratio [OR] 6.3], smoking cigarettes [OR 3.2], not seeing anti-tobacco advertisements [OR 1.5], family history of tobacco use [OR 3.9], use of betel quid [OR 2.9] and use of areca nut [OR 3.2]

Prevalence and factors associated with practice of modern contraceptive methods among currently married women in district Naushahro Feroze

To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with practice of modern contraceptive methods among currently married women of reproductive age group [15-49 years] in District Naushahro Feroze. A community based cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to June 2000. We interviewed 420 currently married women of reproductive age group [15-49] years. Information regarding socio-demographic factors, economic condition, their source of information for the message of family planning and reason of using any modern contraceptive method. The prevalence of modern contraceptive method was 27.9%. Final multiple logistic regression analysis showed that with husband agreement [OR, 5.4; 95% CI 2.2-13.2], women could go alone to a health care provider [OR, 1.4; 95% CI 1.1-2.4] and women employment status [OR, 2.5 95% CI 1.2-5.2] were significantly associated with practice of modern contraceptive methods. Similarly, those women who had 3 or more children were more likely to use any modern contraceptive methods compared to those who have 2 or less children. In addition, husband's education was also found significantly associated with family planning practice. The practice of modern contraceptive method is low. Socio demographic factors of women were significantly associated with use of modern contraceptive methods. Male and female education and small group discussions of various issues related to family planning and reproductive health may be helpful in creating awareness in the district