Perceptions of Adult Male Smokers in Lagos Nigeria and Their Readiness to Quit Smoking.

Abstract

Smoking continues to be a significant issue of public health in the whole world, with low- and middle-income countries showing a disproportionate number of adult male users. In Nigeria, the prevalence of smoking is high in Lagos State, among the adult men, but very little is known about their perception towards smoking and willingness to quit. This paper examines the beliefs, attitudes, and cessation factors and beliefs on smoking behavior among adult male smokers in Lagos. A cross-sectional survey involving 200 adult males who smoke was quantitative, and it was carried out with the use of a structured questionnaire in Google Forms that was shared on WhatsApp and Facebook. The information gathered was in terms of socio-demographics, perceptions towards health risks, cultural and social factors and quitting smoking readiness. The analysis showed that even though the majority of the respondents have knowledge about the health risks of smoking, the fact of smoking is socially accepted, and commonly linked to masculinity, stress management, and peer acceptance. Personal health concerns, family and social support, cessation programs availability, as well as economic factors contribute to readiness to quit, whereas stress, previous unsuccessful efforts, and peer pressure are barriers. The results indicate a considerable difference between the level of knowledge regarding the health risks and the real quitting behavior, with the accent made on the role of cultural, social, and psychological factors. The research finds that personalized, situational-based interventions based on inaccurate beliefs, social norms, and psychological issues and barriers are necessary to enhance the rates of cessation. The findings can be used by policymakers, health practitioners in the community, and health practitioners to implement policies that will reduce the prevalence of smoking and its related health costs in adult male smokers in Lagos, Nigeria.