This study examines adolescent smoking hesitation among secondary school teachers in Cape Town, South Africa, focusing on tobacco control policies implemented between and . Data collection was conducted through surveys administered in secondary schools across Cape Town. A total of 350 teachers participated, ensuring a diverse sample representing various sectors of education. Teachers showed significant hesitation in starting smoking, with 72% indicating they would hesitate if offered cigarettes, highlighting the effectiveness of policy interventions in altering their behaviour. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing tobacco control policies to maintain teacher-led health initiatives aimed at adolescent populations. Policies should continue to emphasise peer and self-reflection programmes that reinforce the negative impacts of smoking among adolescents.
Nkosi Mthembu (Sat,) studied this question.