Attitude toward tobacco and alcohol practices among dental undergraduate students: A questionnaire survey

Abstract

Background: Just like other adults, dental graduates to have inclination toward habits such as consumption of tobacco and alcohol. Our study aimed to find the number of dental graduates indulged in this bad habit. This is an important study as it assesses the true awareness among dental graduates who being medical professionals are an active part of health promotion and prevention campaigns. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted for all the 4-years volunteer dental graduates. Results: Consumption of both tobacco and alcohol was increased over the subsequent years. Based on gender, females were less likely indulged in these habits. Majority consumed cigarette smoking form of tobacco and beer was the most used alcoholic beverage. Conclusion: A very small percentage of students showed excessive tobacco and alcohol use, and it is for this group that education on the consequences of tobacco and alcohol abuse would be most relevant. There should be a role for higher education, community, and professional bodies to participate actively in the prevention of tobacco and alcohol abuse among undergraduates.