Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

Prevalence of Paan use among High School Boys of Zahedan in 2007 and its Contributory Factors

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

L Farhad molashahi 1
M Honarmand 1
M.A Rigi ladiz 2

1 Assistant Professor of Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran

2 Assistant Professor of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Zahedan University of Medical Science, Zahedan, Iran

Abstract
Background & Aims: considering the risks and complications resulting from tobacco use this study was
performed to find the prevalence of paan use and its correlates among high school boys in Zahedan during
the academic year 2007.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 292 high school boys of Zahedan were selected randomly. A
structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic information and paan use and to determine
the rate of current users (at least once during the last 30 days) and life time users (at least once or twice in
their life). Data were analyzed by using chi square test and SPSS 14 software.
Results: In whole, 58 students (19.9%) were current users and 29.9% had used paan during their life time.
Paan consumption showed significant relationship with parents’ educational level, educational statue of
students, family size, the number of cigarette smokers in the family and ethnicity (P<0.05), while it has no
significant relationship with age.
Conclusion: paan use among Zahedan high school boys is prevalent and indicates the necessity of
preventive programs in schools. 

Keywords

smokeless tobacco
high school students
Prevalence
Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences
Volume 16, Issue 3
2009
Pages 263-269

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