2001-12-31-世界卫生组织-2002_GYTS_Country_Report_Uganda_30页_190kb

Summary of Global Youth Tobacco Survey on Youth Tobacco Use in Uganda

Background and Objectives

The Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) was conducted in Uganda in 2002 to assess tobacco use among adolescents aged 13-15 years, focusing on prevalence, attitudes, behaviors, and exposure to tobacco-related factors. It aimed to provide data for policy guidance and prevention programs, with a sample drawn from four districts: Arua, Kampala, Mpigi, and Rest of Central. The survey utilized a two-stage cluster sampling method and self-administered questionnaires.

Key Findings

• Prevalence of Tobacco Use: Ever-smoked cigarettes among students was 20.4%; Arua reported the highest prevalence (33.1%), while Rest of Central districts had the lowest (12.6%). Current use was 9.7% for cigarettes and 14.6% for other tobacco products, varying by region.
• Initiation and Susceptibility: Most students began smoking before age 10; nearly 10% of never-smokers are susceptible to initiating use in the next year. High smoking rates linked to local access in tobacco-growing districts like Arua.
• Perceptions and Attitudes: Smoking is perceived positively, with some students viewing it as attractive or a weight-loss tool. Peer influence is strong, promoting tobacco use collectively.
• Access and Availability: Easier access to cigarettes in some districts; free offers from tobacco companies were reported (mean across districts), with advertising prevalent through media and billboards.
• Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS): High exposure to second-hand smoke in homes and public places, especially in Arua. A majority of students (over 60%) believe smoke is harmful, but enforcement of ETS bans is weak.
• Cessation: Most current smokers (over 70%) desired to quit, but few succeeded, with rates lower in Mpigi. Susceptibility to initiation remains high.
• Media and School Curriculum: Students are exposed to both anti- and pro-tobacco messages; however, school-based education on tobacco effects is inconsistent, at 65-80% coverage across districts.

Conclusions and Recommendations

The survey indicates high youth tobacco use, driven by economic interests, weak enforcement, and media influences, leading to public health risks. Recommendations include:

• Strengthening educational programs and health campaigns to counteract pro-tobacco perceptions.
• Enacting and enforcing legislation to ban smoking in public areas and restrict tobacco advertising.
• Implementing school-based cessation programs and involving peer educators to reduce use.