Prevalence of Secondhand Smoke and Its Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at a Hospital in Yangon Region, Myanmar

Smokers are not the only ones who suffer the effects of tobacco; those around them are also harmed, particularly vulnerable groups such as pregnant women. This study aims to describe the prevalence of secondhand smoke (SHS) among pregnant women and the factors associated with SHS exposure. This study was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at Central Women's Hospital in the Yangon Region in 2022. The prevalence of SHS exposure was described, and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine the associated factors. Out of 407 participants, the prevalence of SHS exposure was 65.4%. Education level, religion, smoking rules at home, visiting public places, and avoidance of SHS during pregnancy were significantly associated with SHS exposure. The findings highlight the need for community guidance programs, policies, and interventions to establish smoke-free environments. It is also important to conduct behavioral interventions for smokers, especially to avoid SHS for pregnant women.

Automated summary

This study aims to describe the prevalence of secondhand smoke (SHS) among pregnant women and the factors associated with SHS exposure. Out of 407 participants, the prevalence of SHS exposure was 65.4%. The findings highlight the importance of establishing smoke-free environments through community guidance programs, policies, and interventions, as well as conducting behavioral interventions for smokers, especially to avoid SHS for pregnant women.