A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017 in the West Bank, Palestine to examine the prevalence and the risk factors associated with tobacco smoking and energy drink (ED) intake among 10th grade female students. 382 participants were randomly selected; 16.2% were current tobacco smokers (18.1% cigarette smokers, 36.1% waterpipe smokers), 41.4% were current ED consumers, 29.7% were current tobacco smokers and ED users,15.7% intended to smoke tobacco, and 29.2% intended to consume ED. Most of the adolescents (93.3%) were knowledgeable about the dangers of smoking cigarettes, but not as informed surrounding waterpipe (45.7%) and ED (36.2%) risks. The majority of girls disagreed with banning waterpipe (83.4%) and ED (74.3%). Curiosity was the most frequent motivation for use. Girls who consumed ED were more likely to smoke cigarettes (Odds Ratio (OR:7.2)) and waterpipe (OR:7.6) than non-users. The mean initiation age was 12.6 years for EDs intake, and was associated with the initiation of cigarette smoking (13.6 years) and waterpipe smoking (14.0 years). This study indicates an alarming situation concerning ED intake and tobacco smoking among Palestinian female adolescents. Regular intake of ED was common and strongly associated with tobacco smoking, raising concerns about possible adverse effects, including related risk behaviors. Prevention and cessation strategies are recommended. Key words: energy drink; tobacco smoking; waterpipe; non-communicable diseases; female adolescents

Title

CONCURRENT DISORDERS SOCIETY

Publisher

Published in Toronto, Canada @Concurrent Disorders Society Inc.

Publisher Country

Canada

Publication Type

Online only

Volume

3

Year

2021

Pages

7-18