Knowledge and smoking pattern among adults attending primary health centers in Al-Khobar city, Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to identify the prevalence, knowledge and practice of smoking among adult [> 15 years] primary health care [PHC] centres attendants in Al-khobar City. A total of 445 attendants were selected randomly and interviewed using a questionnaire designed for this purpose. Overall prevalence rate of smoking was 21.8% [34.4% in males and 6.3% in females].Combination of more than one form of smoking, heavily and for long duration was the prevailing trend of smoking. Knowledge concerning aspects of smoking investigated was generally satisfactory with minor variations among groups of smokers, non-smokers and ex-smokers. Presence of chronic diseases among smokers and non-smokers was also investigated. Based on the results of this study, appropriate and practical recommendations were stressed