Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aim: Adolescents are vulnerable targets of tobacco industry with all consequences of usage. Studies reveal that tobacco abuse is rising in this age group in Nepal. Materials and methods: A cross sectional survey was carried out School Going Adolescents in Sonpur VDC  of  Sunsari District , Nepal. 311 students of VIII–IX standard to study the knowledge and abuse of tobacco and to find out influencing socio-demographic factors. The data was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Study showed knowledge score was higher in females, students from nuclear families, and those with literate parents. Low prevalence of tobacco intake was obtained among the students, with 9.8% reported having ever used smokeless tobacco and 4.3% ever smoked. Tobacco intake was higher among those with a history of parental tobacco intake. Conclusion: The present study is an attempt to address issue of   tobacco abuse among the teenagers as they are the future of tomorrow. There is need to be continued information education and communication (IEC) activities should be conducted by the school authorities, with involvement of nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and parents for primary prevention.
Key words: Khaini,  Beedi, Tobacco, Cigarette