[Smoking prevention and control among elementary school students in Xuhui district, Shanghai]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a school-based smoking prevention and control intervention program among elementary school students.

Methods: Through two phase cluster sampling, 566 pupils in grade 4 and grade 5 of two schools were assigned to intervention group and control group. One year comprehensive smoking intervention was conducted in the intervention group. The assessment was carried out through three questionnaires: pre- and post-intervention, 6-month after intervention.

Results: After one year intervention, pupils in the intervention group significantly improved their knowledge and attitudes related to tobacco use. The rate of attempting smoking decreased form 7.8% to 2.6% and the rate of passive smoking from 53.6% to 41.8%. The difference between the intervention and control groups was statistically significant. However, several index started to decline at 6-month follow up survey.

Conclusion: The result demonstrated the effectiveness and feasibility of tobacco control in elementary school and the positive effect must be developed.