Philippine E-Journals

Knowledge and Attitude of Cigarette Smokers of Barangay Potrero, Malabon Ages 19 to 60 Years regarding the National Smoking Ban

Arbel Daniel C. Barrera | Veronica A. Cruz | Jackie S. Funtanilla | Elizar N. Gonzales | Mohamed Jeyilani | Mark Matthew S. Padilla | Meet B. Patel | Micah Jill S. Santos | Nima O. Sherpa | Tsering P. Sherpa | Rouzhan Keil T. Tolentino | April Kay G. Vitto | Maria Leonora B. Raboc

 

Abstract:

Objective: The study aimed to determine the strengths and weaknesses of Executive Order 26 through determining the knowledge and attitude of the cigarette smokers of Brgy. Potrero, Malabon City ages 19 to 60 years regarding the Executive Order 26. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional type of research was conducted at Barangay Potrero, Malabon City wherein 279 respondents were purposely selected and asked using a 5-page survey questionnaire. Results: Participants had an average age of 36 SD ± 12.28. Majority are male (77.1%), single (53.4%), high school graduates (58.8%), Roman Catholic (88.9%), had family monthly income of less than 6,000 pesos (43.7%) and unemployed (62.7%). Of the respondents, 18.99% started smoking at the age of 18 years old. Majority are smokers for more than 10 years (53.8%) and consume 1-5 sticks per day (35.1%). 63.44% were aware of the date of implementation of E.O. 26 and mostly (48.39%) knew the places prohibited for smoking. Majority were knowledgeable of specific places meant for smoking (92%) and the sanctions for violators (88%) as well as the harmful effects of smoking (92.47%). The majority (84%) is in favor of E.O. 26 and while the minority (44%) thinks that smoking practices persist despite its implementation while 89.61% showed effort to stop smoking. Conclusion: The respondents are knowledgeable and are in favor of the smoking ban although there is perception that the law was improperly carried out. Income is the most important factor influencing the respondents’ knowledge and attitude of the smoking ban.