Smoking and selected social problems among household heads in Jos Nigeria

Smoking and social problems like partner abuse, family dysfunction, and food insecurity pose serious public health concerns, especially in low- and middle-income countries. While the health risks of tobacco are well known, its relationship with household stressors remains limited in Nigeria. This study assessed the prevalence of smoking and selected social problems among household heads and examined associations between these variables.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Plateau State, utilizing a multi-stage cluster sampling design. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 661 household heads or adult representatives. Variables measured were sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status, family dysfunction, intimate partner abuse, and household food insecurity. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models were used to examine associations.

Most household heads were male (90.9%), married (83.8%), educated (62.5%), and in their 40s. The prevalence of smoking among household heads was 12%. Intimate partner abuse (58%) and family dysfunction (61%) were highly prevalent, whereas food insecurity was low (6.4%). Household head smoking was significantly associated with intimate partner abuse, family dysfunction and food insecurity at the bivariate level, but these associations were not retained in the multivariate model. Predictors of social problems included younger age, formal education, retirement status, higher income, and the head of household’s chronic illness.

These findings highlight the relationship between smoking and household social problems. Routine screening and counselling for smoking and abuse should be integrated into community and primary care services.