Why Do Indonesian Teenagers Start Smoking? A Study on Key Influences

What is it about?

This study explores the main factors that lead Indonesian teenagers to start smoking, using data from 9,655 teenagers in the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS). The research examines the impact of age, gender, family influence, peer pressure, exposure to cigarette smoke in public places, and anti-smoking campaigns. The findings show that boys are at much higher risk of smoking initiation, and those exposed to smoking in public spaces or influenced by smoking parents, teachers, and friends are more likely to start smoking. Teenagers who never saw anti-smoking messages in the media also had a higher chance of picking up the habit. This study highlights the need for stronger tobacco control policies, better education, and increased public awareness to prevent early smoking initiation.

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Why is it important?

Smoking is a major health issue in Indonesia, where many teenagers start smoking at a young age. Early smoking initiation makes it harder to quit later and increases the risk of serious health problems. Understanding what drives teenagers to smoke can help governments, schools, and families create better prevention strategies, ensuring a healthier future for Indonesian youth.

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