Tobacco use and media exposure among teenagers in Saudi Arabia

Background: Exposure to tobacco-related content on social media significantly influences tobacco use among adolescents, underscoring the need for targeted preventive interventions. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of tobacco use among 13–15-year-old students in Saudi Arabia, and its association with media and entertainment. Methods: From the 2022 Global Youth Tobacco Survey, we collected data on 5610 13–15-year-old students across all 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. We analysed the data using SPSS version 24 and conducted chi-square tests, binary regression and multivariate analyses. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the study participants, 6.9% reported using any form of tobacco product; current smokers were 3.1%, of which 71% acknowledged health warning on cigarette packages. Exposure to pro-tobacco media significantly increased the odds of smoking (adjusted odds ratios 1.498–2.509, P = 0.003), while exposure to anti-tobacco messaging, gender and grade were significant predictors of smoking behaviour. Age and classroom education about the dangers of tobacco use showed less significant associations. E-cigarette was the most commonly used product (5.7%). Conclusion: Tobacco use among the study population remains a concern due to strong media influence, indicating the need for stronger restrictions on tobacco advertising and to implement youth-focused prevention strategies in Saudi Arabia.