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(CC BY-NC 4.0).
Background:Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide, with its early
initiation among young adults posing a critical public-health concern. Despite increasing awareness of general health
risks, knowledge of tobacco’s oral health consequences remains insufficient in this age group. This study aimed to
assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding tobacco use and its oral health impact among young
adults.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 400
participants aged 18–25 years. A pre-validated, self-administered KAP questionnaire was used to collect
demographic information and data related to tobacco use behaviors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS
v26, applying descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations. Correlation among KAP
components was assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Of the 400 respondents, 56% were male and 44% female, with a mean age of 21.3 ± 2.1 years. The overall
prevalence of tobacco use was 22.5%, higher among males (31.7%) than females (10.2%) (p < 0.001). The mean
knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 6.8 ± 1.9, 27.2 ± 4.3, and 5.8 ± 2.1 respectively. Although 82% were
aware that tobacco causes oral cancer, only 47% recognized its role in halitosis and 38% knew that smokeless tobacco
is carcinogenic. About 48% of current users expressed willingness to quit, but only 18% had ever attempted
cessation. Positive correlations were observed between knowledge–attitude (r = 0.42, p < 0.001), knowledge–
practice (r = 0.36, p < 0.001), and attitude–practice (r = 0.48, p < 0.001), indicating that higher awareness and
favorable attitudes were associated with better oral health behaviors.
Conclusion:The study highlights moderate knowledge and positive attitudes but suboptimal practices regarding
tobacco use and oral health among young adults. Targeted awareness programs and institutional tobacco cessation
counseling are essential to bridge the knowledge-practice gap. Integrating oral-health education into broader antitobacco initiatives can substantially reduce tobacco-related oral morbidity in this vulnerable population