[Smoking and drug use among students of selected univerities]

Abstract

Smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs are still actual social and health problems in Poland and in the world as well. Conducted studies, considering health behaviours among children and youth, indicate high percentage (between 20-30%) of smokers in mentioned population, depending on age, gender and environment. Health effects caused by smoking occur usually in adulthood as smoking related diseases, despite the addiction leading to the health problem begins earlier, even in childhood. Statistics, considering drinking alcohol and drugs abuse among young people are also frightening. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the state of knowledge about harmful effects of smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs use among students of Silesian Medical University, Silesian University of Technology and Academy of Physical Education and to evaluate and compare health attitudes towards mentioned addictions among students of different Universities. 315 students at age between 19-24 years took part in the study and filled in the anonymous questionnaire prepared by authors. Surveyed population included 108 students of Silesian Medical University, 110 students of Silesian University of Technology and 97 students of Academy of Physical Education in Katowice. Knowledge, presented by all students, about harmful effects of smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs use is not put into practice and does not result in healthy behaviours in examined part of life style. Students of Silesian Medical University demonstrate the highest state of knowledge about drugs. Students of Academy of Physical Education in Katowice have the most improper behaviours in the area of addictions. There is a necessity of preparing and spreading efficacious prophylactic programmes in order to raise awareness about the harmfulness of smoking, drinking and drugs use.