Prevalence and Influencing Factors of Tobacco Use Among Physicians in Madinah City, Saudi Arabia, in 2024

Background Smoking is recognized as a major public health issue globally; it is widely distributed among people of various origins and races in the world despite hard efforts on cessation programs. Its health hazards extend to dangerous complications, which mostly end in death according to statistics around the world. Tobacco use is influenced by several factors, which may include social pressures from peers, family influences, and media portrayals of smoking. This study aimed to identify the smoking prevalence among Madinah physicians, the influencing factor of their tobacco use, and their tobacco-related attitudes. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving physicians working in selected district hospitals in Madinah. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique and were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire in English. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing a chi-square analysis to assess smoking prevalence and influencing factors. Results The study involved 427 physicians, with 206 (48.2%) Saudi and 277 (64.9%) male. Most participants' ages ranged between 25 and 34 (38%). Smokers accounted for 85 (19.9%) participants, while previous smokers numbered 20 (4.7%). Male gender was significantly associated with smoking. Stress and social influence were the most common influencing factors, 62 (44.2%) and 26 (20.9%), respectively. The most common types of smoking products used among both groups were electronic cigarettes (42, 35.6%), cigarettes (40, 32.2%), and water pipes (22, 19.2%). Most physicians agreed on the importance of physicians serving as role models for the community representing 52 (61.2%) of tobacco users and 286 (83.6%) of non-tobacco users. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence, patterns, and implications of tobacco use among physicians in Madinah. The findings underscore a significant public health concern, revealing that a notable proportion of physicians are current or former tobacco users. Key demographic factors such as gender, age, and nationality demonstrate clear associations with tobacco use, highlighting the need for targeted interventions tailored to these specific groups.