Self-Reported Respiratory Symptoms Among Students Exposed To second hand smoke (SHS) In Academic Institutions In Gaborone: Implications For Public Health Interventions

Introduction Tobacco smoking and secondhand smoke (SHS) are recognised risk factors for acute and chronic respiratory illness. Studies have reported an increasing smoking prevalence among university students across all levels of study. This study assessed SHS and self-reported respiratory symptoms among students in three academic institutions in Gaborone, Botswana. Methods A cross-sectional survey was carried out among students aged ≥18 years in three randomly selected universities in March 2019. Smoking status, exposure to SHS in the past 30 days and respiratory symptoms were assessed. Logistic regression was used to analyse respiratory symptoms among non-smoking students. Results Out of 450 students, current tobacco smoking was reported by 142 (32%) participants, with males 97 (68%) smoking the most. Exposure to SHS was highest at school (93%) followed by public places (89%) and home (48%). Exposed non-smokers exposed to SHS were 1.6 times (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.35 –1.99) more likely to experience respiratory symptoms and 1.9 times (AOR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.55 – 2.35) more likely to have headaches compared to non-exposed non smokers. Exposed non-smokers were also 3.6 times (AOR: 3.58, 95% CI: 2.50 – 5.11) more likely to feel irritated by tobacco particles in a place or car someone previously smoked in than non-smokers not exposed. Conclusions Exposure to SHS and self-reported respiratory symptoms are high. Non-smokers exposed to SHS were more likely to report respiratory symptoms and irritation compared to non-smokers not exposed. Further research is recommended to inform strengthening policies and strategies to reduce exposure to SHS in academic institutions.