Knowledge and Attitudes of Nursing Students Towards Smokeless Tobacco and Areca Nut Control in Central Province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Use of smokeless tobacco (SLT) and areca nut (AN) is widespread in Sri Lanka. Several workshops to train healthcare workers on SLT/ AN cessation programmes (SLT/AN-CP) were carried out. Objective of the study was to evaluate the enhancement of knowledge and attitudes related to SLT/AN-CP among nursing students following a workshop. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted with the use of two questionnaires. A total of 212 nursing students were assessed and the study group included 184 females (86.8%). Results: Results were analyzed according to the 3 main areas of the assessment, i.e knowledge related to Oral cancer, knowledge related to SLT, its effects and cessation practices and attitudes regarding SLT cessation counselling. Out of the eight questions to assess the knowledge related to oral cancer, five questions demonstrated a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) following the workshop when compared to the pre workshop knowledge. Even though, majority had a good knowledge on harmful effects of SLT and AN, it was interesting to note that 14.15 % of the participants were unaware about the fact that the oral cancer is the commonest cancer among Sri Lankan males. 96.7% agreed that proper counseling would lead patient to quit the habit. Conclusions: This preliminary study showed that the knowledge and attitude towards SLT/AN-CP among nursing students were satisfactory and effective workshops can be used to improve their knowledge and attitudes towards SLT/AN-CP especially in low economical settings

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“… 6 And in Sri Lanka, several workshops held among student nurses resulted in an enhanced knowledge and attitude towards the use of ST as well as to areca nut (a stimulant from areca palm). 8 …”