Profile and Predictors of Adolescent Tobacco use in Ghana: Evidence from the 2017 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS). : Profile and Predictors of Adolescent Tobacco use in Ghana

Background: Understanding of predictive factors for tobacco use initiation among adolescents is critical for effective intervention and prevention. In this regard, we aimed to determine the profile, examine associated factors, and show the regional disparities in the use of tobacco products among the youth in Ghana. Method: The study used the 2017 Ghana Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) to obtain tobacco-related information among adolescents in  Junior High Schools across the country. The study used a 2-stage cluster randomized sampling technique to obtain nationally representative data. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of participant’s characteristics and use of tobacco.   Results: Of 6039 targeted respondents, 5664 (93.8%) participated, - 2707 males, 2929 females, and 28 missing with gender. From the unadjusted analysis, age (p=0.001), pocket money (p<0.001), and exposure to SHS at home (p<0.001) were significantly associated with tobacco use.  In the adjusted analysis, age (p=0.002), pocket money (p<0.001), exposure to SHS at home (p<0.001), and being taught about the dangers of tobacco use (p=0.043) were significantly associated with tobacco use. The regional disparities in the use of any tobacco product were 28.3%, 7.0%, and 4.8% in the Savanna/northern zone, middle/forest zone, and Coastal zone respectively. Conclusion: Multiple factors including age, pocket money, exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) are identified to be associated with tobacco use among the youth in Ghana. Promoting anti-smoking campaigns in early adolescence, as well as programs targeting early tobacco use can guard the youth against initiating tobacco use