Relationship and the Effect of Different Variables on Smoking Prevention Behaviors among Students: The Regression Analysis

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Abstract
Background & Aims: The burden of tobacco smoking is known worldwide. In a high percentage of preventable cancers, respiratory diseases are attributed to smoking. This study aimed to investigate the relationship and the effect of different variables on smoking prevention behaviors among students in southwest Iran in 2022 by the regression analysis. Materials and Methods: The current study is a descriptive-analytical study that was conducted in two phases. In the first phase of the study, demographic and contextual information questionnaires, a questionnaire based on the health belief model, and a questionnaire related to smoking prevention behaviors were used to collect data. To this end, 120 students from different undergraduate programs at Payame Noor University in Ahvaz were randomly selected. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 16 via central indicators, dispersion, and multiple linear regression tests. Results: The results showed that the perceived barriers dimension (beta=0.168, P value=0.038) and action guide (beta=0.235, P value<0.001) have a significant effect on prevention behaviors. According to the reported coefficients, a one-unit increase in perceived barriers and action guidelines, 0.168 and 0.235 units, respectively, increased the number of prevention behaviors. Conclusion: It is possible to exert a positive effect on the prevention of smoking among students by properly educating students’ parents. Paying attention to these recommendations can increase the probability of students’ understanding of the prevention of smoking.