Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Tobacco Smoking Among Pupils: A Case Study of Kalomo Secondary School in Kalomo District Southern Province, Zambia
Abstract:
Tobacco smoking is one of the leading preventable
causes of illness and death worldwide. Its prevalence continues to rise in many
low- and middle-income countries, including Zambia. This study aimed to assess
the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding tobacco smoking among pupils
aged 14–20 years at Kalomo Secondary School in Kalomo District, Southern
Province, Zambia. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used,
involving 273 pupils who were selected using simple random sampling. Data were
collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS version 25.
Descriptive statistics were used to summarize key findings, while chi-square
tests were applied to determine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes,
practices, and smoking behavior. The data collection tools were piloted at
Zimba Secondary School, and ethical approval was obtained prior to the study. The
study revealed that most pupils had limited knowledge about the harmful effects
of smoking. While 51% knew that smoking could cause heart disease, stroke, and
impotence, only 26% linked it to lung diseases. Additionally, 13% of the
respondents disagreed, and 10% were unsure about the health risks of smoking. Although
many pupils expressed negative attitudes towards smoking, their attitudes did
not always correspond with their level of knowledge. Despite being aware of
some dangers, a significant number of pupils were still practicing smoking. The
findings showed a strong association between smoking behavior and pupils'
knowledge. e (χ² = 40.28, p = 0.000), attitudes (χ² = 5.59, p = 0.018), and
practices (χ² = 15.90, p = 0.001).
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