RESUMEN
The aims of the study were to determine the prevalence of tobacco smoking among patients attending private clinic and to examine the socio-demographic correlates of smoking in Gaza City. A retrospective study was carried out. The case records of all patients attending private chest clinic Abu Tawelia in Gaza City from 2006-2014 were included. A total number of 1034 records of patients was included. The sample consisted of 514 males (49.85%) and 518 females (50.15%). The patients age ranged from 18 to 90 years with mean age of 54.7 years. Overall, the smoking prevalence was of 19.2%. Males smoked more than females (16.3% vs. 2.9% of total sample). Most current smokers smoked cigarettes (82.5%), but the use of Shisha was also common (17.5%). Mean smoking years was 26.16. Smoking prevailed in patients with age ranging from 28 to 58 years (48.5%). A bit less than 40% of smokers has started before 20 years of age. Health-promotion activities should be established to decrease the prevalence of smoking and prevent future adverse health outcomes.