Changes in Exposure to Secondhand Smoke Among Youth in Private and Public Secondary Schools in Riyadh

Introduction: It is indisputable that secondhand smoke is a grave cause of morbidity and mortality and can be prevented. Serious efforts have been exerted to reduce exposure to second hand smoke in Saudi Arabia. Despite these interventions, youth continue to be exposed to secondhand smoke at unacceptably high rate. The objective of this study was to examine the extent to which Riyadh private and public secondary school students were exposed to secondhand smoke in 2005 and 2009, to assess components associated with this exposure, and to suggest interventions and solutions. Methods: The Youth Tobacco Survey was carried out in 2005 and 2009 to a representative sample of students from secondary schools. All students completed a self-conducted questionnaire. Results: Secondhand smoke exposure in a room vehicle or both dropped significantly among all students from 2005 (73%') to 2009 (64%). In both 2005 and 2009. Students were significantly more likely to be exposed to secondhand smoke in a room than in a vehicle (66% vs. 51% in 2005 and 60% vs. 43% in 2009). Smoking behaviors and attitudes continued to influence secondhand smoke exposure from 2005 to 2009, although students experienced significant reductions whether they were smoking or nonsmoking and whether they lived with. a smoker or not. Those with close friends who smoked and those who did not perceive secondhand smoke as dangerous and harmful did not benefit.

Conclusion: These data show declines in exposure to secondhand smoke among Riyadh's secondary school students, but exposure still a major challenge.