The Causes and Consequences of Cigarette Smoking among Youth

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background of Study

Smoking is a practice in which a substances such as, tobacco, marijuana or cannabis is burned and the smoke tasted or inhaled Akintaro (2015). It is primarily practiced as a route of administration for recreation of drug use, as combustion release the active substances in drugs such as nicotine and makes them available for absorption through the lungs. It can be done as a part of rituals to induce trances and spiritual enlightenment, (Lock, Reyndds and Tansey, 1998). Smoking is one of the most common forms of recreational drug use. In recent times, tobacco smoking is by far the most popular form of smoking ahead of pipes, cigars and chewing tobacco and is practiced by over one billion people in the majority of all human societies resulting in nearly 2 billion people, that is a third of the world's population being exposed to pulmonary tuberculosis pathogen (Philips 2010; World Health Organization, 2002).

Smoking is one of the most common addictions of modern times. It has been implicated as an etiological agent for various chronic diseases, including a variety of infection, cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illness such as chronic obstacle pulmonary disease, that have impairment in the balance between cells growth and cells death, which, put together, are leading the cause of morbidity and mortality in today society (Zhonget al, 2008; Mehta et al, 2008). Unless smoking cigarette patterns are reserve, the world health organization estimated that by 2020-2030, cigarette smoking will be responsible for 10million death per year, with 70percent of them occurring in the developing counties like Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal and many other countries in Asia, Latin America (WHO 2001; Suriyaproum et al.; 2007).

Smoking has been shown to be a leading cause of premature mortality and morbidity resulting in several millions of deaths globally. It has been predicted that if the pattern currently seen among youth continues, a lifetime of tobacco use would result in the deaths of 250 million children and young people alive today, most of them in developing countries (WHO, 2012). National Population Commission (2009) submitted that Nigeria is one of the most populous countries in Africa, with an estimated population of 162 million people of which youth are estimated to be more than 30%. In Nigeria, the prevalence of tobacco use among adults(12.3% males < 1% in females) is generally lower than in more developed countries, however, prevalence among youth tends to be higher than among adults, a mean lifetime smoking prevalence of 26.4% was reported among secondary school students with values ranging from 7.2% to 42.9% (Odukoya, Odeyemi, Oyeyemi and Updhyay, 2013).

Cigarette smoking has been associated with an extensive list of health disorders as well as reduction of life expectancy (Detels 2002; Doll et al 2004). On the average, cigarette smokers lose about 15 years of their life (WHO 2008) and an estimated 4 million.

According to CDC (2022), one of the primary causes of cigarette smoking among youth is peer pressure. Adolescents often seek social acceptance and may start smoking to fit in with their peers who smoke (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). Furthermore, family influence plays a significant role, as children of smokers are more likely to pick up the habit due to parental modeling. Media and advertising also contribute to smoking initiation, with studies showing that exposure to cigarette advertisements and smoking scenes in movies increases the likelihood of youth smoking (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2023). Other factors such as stress, depression, and curiosity further encourage young people to experiment with smoking.

The consequences of cigarette smoking among youth are both immediate and long-term. According to the CDC (2022), smoking at an early age increases the risk of developing nicotine dependence, leading to chronic smoking habits in adulthood. The health effects of smoking are well-documented, including an increased risk of lung cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. Beyond physical health, cigarette smoking has negative social and economic consequences. Smokers often experience reduced academic performance, strained relationships, and financial burdens due to the cost of purchasing cigarettes (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS], 2021).

Cigarette smoking is the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of burning tobacco wrapped in paper, commonly known as a cigarette. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021), smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, contributing to severe health conditions such as lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders. Among the youth, cigarette smoking has become a significant public health concern, driven by various social, psychological, and environmental factors. Therefore, this study aims to explore the causes and consequences of cigarette smoking among the youth.

1.2 Statement of Problems

Investigation revealed that youth smoking is not just an individual choice but a reflection of societal and environmental influences. Many adolescents start smoking out of curiosity or to fit into social circles, without fully understanding the long-term consequences (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). The portrayal of smoking in movies, music videos, and social media platforms often normalizes the habit, making it more appealing to impressionable young minds. In some cases, the lack of strong parental guidance or exposure to a smoking household further contributes to the likelihood of a teenager picking up the habit.

Furthermore, the consequences of cigarette smoking among youth extend beyond health-related issues. Smoking is linked to reduced academic performance, as nicotine affects cognitive function and concentration levels, making it harder for students to focus on their studies (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS], 2021). Additionally, young smokers are more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and delinquency, leading to broader societal concerns. Financial strain is another issue, as maintaining a smoking habit can divert money away from essential needs like education and personal development. Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to examine the factors contributing to cigarette smoking among youth and its subsequent effects on their health, academics, and overall well-being.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study

The aim of this study is to examine the causes and consequences of cigarette smoking among the youth. To achieve this aim, the study seeks to:

1. Identify the key factors that influence cigarette smoking among youth, including peer pressure, family background, media influence, and psychological factors.
2. Assess the short-term and long-term health effects of cigarette smoking on young individuals.
3. Examine the social and academic consequences of smoking among youth.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of existing anti-smoking policies and awareness campaigns targeted at young people.
5. Suggest practical recommendations for reducing cigarette smoking among youth through education, policy enforcement, and support programs.

1.4 Research Questions

Based on the stated objectives, this study seeks to answer the following research questions:

• What are the key factors that influence cigarette smoking among youth, including peer pressure, family background, media influence, and psychological factors?
• What are the short-term and long-term health effects of cigarette smoking on young individuals?
• How does cigarette smoking impact the social life and academic performance of youth?
• How effective are existing anti-smoking policies and awareness campaigns in preventing youth smoking?
• What practical strategies can be implemented to reduce cigarette smoking among youth through education, policy enforcement, and support programs?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Based on the stated objectives, the research study formulates the following hypotheses:

• H₀1: There is no significant relationship between peer pressure, family background, media influence, psychological factors, and cigarette smoking among youth
• H₀2: Cigarette smoking has no significant negative impact on the health of young individuals.

1.6 Significance of Study

The outcome of this research will contribute to public health awareness by highlighting the short-term and long-term health risks associated with cigarette smoking. It will emphasize how smoking affects not only physical well-being but also mental health, making it a critical issue that requires urgent attention.

Additionally, educational institutions will benefit from this research by gaining a better understanding of how cigarette smoking impacts academic performance. The findings will help schools implement targeted programs to discourage smoking among students and provide necessary support for those at risk.

Furthermore, policymakers will find this study useful in assessing the effectiveness of existing anti-smoking laws and regulations. The research will provide data-driven recommendations to strengthen policies that restrict youth access to tobacco products and promote tobacco-free environments.

Lastly, the study will also serve as a reference for future researchers exploring youth smoking behavior, addiction, and tobacco control measures. By shedding light on the societal impact of cigarette smoking among young people, this research will play a crucial role in shaping public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking prevalence and its associated consequences.

1.7 Scope of Study

This study will focus on the causes and consequences of cigarette smoking among youth in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study will primarily target secondary school students, university undergraduates, and young workers within Lagos State. Data will be collected from selected schools, higher institutions, and workplaces to provide a comprehensive understanding of youth smoking behavior.

Additionally, the research will assess the effectiveness of existing anti-smoking policies and awareness campaigns implemented by health agencies such as the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the National Tobacco Control Unit (NTCU).

1.8 Limitations of the Study

This study was limited by several factors that affected the scope and depth of the research.

1. The study was constrained by time and financial resources, limiting the number of schools, universities, and workplaces that were included in the research. A larger sample size would have provided a more comprehensive understanding of youth smoking behaviors across different regions.
2. The study was also geographically limited to Lagos State, meaning the findings may not fully represent youth smoking patterns in other parts of the country. Socioeconomic and cultural differences across states could result in variations in smoking behaviors and influences that were not captured in this research.
3. Additionally, external factors such as evolving tobacco industry strategies, new forms of smoking alternatives like e-cigarettes, and changing government policies were beyond the control of this study.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Cigarette Smoking: Cigarette smoking refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke of burning tobacco wrapped in a paper roll. It is one of the most common forms of tobacco use, often associated with addiction due to the presence of nicotine, a highly addictive chemical (World Health Organization, 2021).

Youth: Youth generally refers to individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, as defined by the United Nations (United Nations, 2020). However, in the context of this study, youth includes adolescents and young adults who are within the critical developmental stages of life where experimentation with cigarette smoking is common.

Peer Pressure: Peer pressure is the influence exerted by friends, classmates, or social groups that encourages an individual to adopt certain behaviors, including smoking. Many young people start smoking due to the desire to fit in or avoid rejection from their peers (Steinberg & Monahan, 2021).

Nicotine Addiction: Nicotine addiction is a condition in which an individual develops a dependence on nicotine, the primary psychoactive substance in tobacco. Nicotine stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, creating pleasurable sensations that make quitting smoking difficult (Benowitz, 2020).

Secondhand Smoke (SHS): Secondhand smoke, also known as passive smoking, is the inhalation of smoke from burning tobacco products by non-smokers. Exposure to SHS has been linked to serious health problems, including respiratory infections, heart disease, and lung cancer (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

Health Consequences: The health consequences of cigarette smoking include an increased risk of lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and various forms of cancer. Long-term smoking is a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide (World Health Organization, 2021).

Tobacco Control Policies: Tobacco control policies refer to laws and regulations designed to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health. These include restrictions on cigarette advertising, increased taxation, and smoking bans in public places (World Health Organization, 2020).