Exploring Awareness and Compliance Regarding Tobacco Sales to Minors Among Tobacco Vendors in Jaipur - A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: In India, tobacco use is a serious public health concern that affects many adults and teenagers. Tobacco sales to minors continue despite strict laws under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Strengthening enforcement and lowering teenage tobacco exposure need an understanding of tobacco sellers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding these restrictions.

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate tobacco vendors knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors around selling tobacco products to school-age children and teenagers in Jaipur, India.

Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among tobacco vendors in Jaipur, India.

Methods: A scheduled method was used to recruit 50 tobacco vendors in total. A systematic questionnaire created by the investigator was used to gather data, and a scoring system was used to evaluate KAP. SPSS version 29 was used to conduct statistical analyses, with significance set at P < 0.05. These analyses included the Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman correlation, and chi-square test.

Results: While the attitude score was very high (19.76 ± 2.58), showing a favorable opinion of smoke control laws, the mean knowledge score was 6.64 ± 1.27, indicating modest awareness. But there was a discrepancy between awareness and actual compliance, as indicated by the practice score (14.76 ± 2.08). Age-related declines in knowledge scores (P = 0.26) and practice scores (P = 0.03) were significant. Weak correlations between KAP components were shown by correlation analysis, indicating that awareness and attitude had little impact on regulatory compliance.

Conclusion: Upholding children against tobacco exposure requires more education, behavioral treatments, community awareness campaigns, and more stringent enforcement of tobacco legislation.