An Ethnographic Study of Barriers to Tobacco Cessation Among University Students of Islamabad

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the barriers to tobacco cessation among university students in two major universities in Islamabad, Pakistan. namely Bahira University and Air University. Despite growing awareness of the health risks associated with smoking the prevalence of tobacco use among university students remains a concern. Understanding the factors that impede cessation efforts is crucial for designing effective interventions and policiestorescue the youth from the ill effects of smoking. Through semi-structured interviews with university students, this research explores the social, and psychological barriers to quitting smoking. The ethnographic analysis reveals several key findings such as social norms and peer influence, stress, and coping mechanisms. Limited accessibility of cessation resources, lack of motivation, and influence of tobacco industry marketing. These findings underscore the need for tailored cessation programs that address the unique challenges faced by university students. The study recommends taking policy measures to restrict tobacco advertising near campuses and improve the availability of cessation resources.