Becoming a tobacco-free campus: A survey of student attitudes, opinions and behaviors

INTRODUCTION: The effectiveness of tobacco-free campus policies in preventing and mitigating tobacco use relies on students’ perceptions, opinions, and adherence to clean-air restrictions. The purpose of this study was to gather data regarding student attitudes, opinions and tobacco use behaviors, one year following implementation of the tobacco-free campus initiative. METHODS: Data were gathered using an anonymous, online survey of graduate and undergraduate students at a public university, one year following implementation of a tobacco-free campus policy. Survey items included tobacco use behaviors, nicotine dependence, opinions towards the policy, challenges in policy adherence among tobacco users, and awareness of tobacco cessation resources for students. Analysis primarily included descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Of 108 respondents, only 18 were habitual tobacco users with most using: cigarettes, cigars or cigarillos (38%), vaping (17.8%), hookah (11.9%), and smokeless tobacco (11.9%). Several reported multiple use. Common motives for tobacco use were relaxation and mood regulation. Tobacco users rated a moderate level of difficulty in adhering to the policy. Only half of the total respondents were aware of cessation resources, specifically peer counseling. Most tobacco users (71%) believed that they could quit without assistance. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary data show 21.8% prevalence of tobacco use within the sample. Information on student opinions and behaviors, including lower risk perception, dual use, and lack of awareness of cessation resources can inform more effective prevention and mitigation strategies, in addition to the tobaccofree campus policy. Further research is needed to monitor policy adherence and changes in student tobacco behaviors.