Factors Associated with Tobacco Smoking Initiation in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study.

objectivesIn this study, our goal is to determine the average age of initiation of smoking and to discuss factors associated with smoking initiation and how they differ among different age groups. Such data may provide inspiration for the government to implement strong and comprehensive tobacco control policies.

methodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was applied to a random sample of at least 370 participants who were categorized into four age groups ((15 years - 24 years), (25 years - 44 years), (45 years - 64 years), and (65+ years)) from all districts of al-Balqa Jordan using a modified questionnaire made on google forms.

resultsThe study revealed that the majority of respondents were aged 45-64 years (32.1%) or 25-44 years (26.6%), predominantly male (76.6%), married (62.9%), and Jordanian nationals (97.4%). Most respondents were current smokers (95%), with an average smoking initiation age of 17.4 years. Initiation age varied significantly by age group, with the youngest average in 15-24-year-olds (16.2 years) and the oldest in those 65+ (18.9 years). Gender differences showed females started smoking later than males across all age groups. Educational level had minimal impact on initiation age, while students began smoking significantly earlier than employees or unemployed individuals. Younger participants reported higher e-cigarette use and shorter smoking durations compared to older age groups, who smoked more cigarettes and had longer smoking durations. Perceptions of smoking as "cool" decreased with age.

conclusionwe can conclude that older age groups tended to start smoking slightly later on average than younger groups. Overall, females began smoking at a significantly later age of 19.6 years than males at 16.8 years.