Adolescents' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Toward Tobacco and Oral Health in Peja Region of Kosovo

Abstract

One of the most significant threats to oral health is tobacco use, mainly through smoking. Tobacco smoke is rich in harmful substances, that contribute to several oral health issues. We aimed to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of young people in the municipality of Peja regarding the consequences of smoking on oral health.

This cross-sectional study used an anonymous questionnaire distributed to 255 students. The majority of participants were from high schools (36.1%) and medical schools (16.1%). Albanian students formed the largest ethnic group (80.4%), while Ashkali and Egyptian students were the least represented (2.4%).

Most students (93.3%) knew that smoking causes cancer, and 63.5% believed it affects oral health. Only 5.9% recognized specific smoking-related diseases. Smokers comprised 14.1% of the participants, with 11% indicating a willingness to quit. Dental visits were reported by 65.9% of students, most of whom were non-smokers. No significant difference in variances between genders was found (F = 3.466, Sig. = 0.064). A significant difference was observed in attitudes towards smoking's impact on oral health between females and males (t = –3.119, Sig. = 0.002).

The study shows high awareness of smoking risks, minor gender differences, and effective education overall. The results also highlight the need for more targeted efforts toward oral health.