Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran , bakouei2004@yahoo.com
Abstract: (8 Views)
Background: Exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) during pregnancy is linked to severe health risks for both mother and infant. This study evaluates the prevalence of SHS exposure among pregnant women in Tehran, Iran, and examines its association with sociodemographic factors and health belief model (HBM) constructs to inform public health interventions. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 313 non-smoking pregnant women receiving prenatal care at health centers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Structured questionnaires assessed demographic characteristics, SHS exposure, and HBM constructs. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17, with statistical significance set at p< 0.05. Results: Of the 313 participants, 102 (32.6%) reported SHS exposure during pregnancy. Most exposed women experienced low exposure levels, typically one cigarette per day and less than one hour of daily contact with smoke. Only "perceived susceptibility" showed a significant difference, with exposed women scoring lower than non-exposed women (p = 0.04). Logistic regression revealed that socioeconomic status (SES) was the only significant demographic predictor of SHS exposure; higher SES was associated with lower exposure (OR = 0.78, p = 0.028), a relationship that persisted after adjustment (OR = 0.78, p = 0.011). Conclusion: Socioeconomic status significantly influences SHS exposure among pregnant women, highlighting the need for targeted interventions addressing structural inequalities.
Abbasi R, Bakouei F, Adib-Rad H, Sepidarkish M. Exposure to secondhand smoke among pregnant women in Iran: a cross-sectional study on health beliefs. Caspian J Reprod Med 2025; 11 (2) :14-20 URL: http://caspjrm.ir/article-1-277-en.html
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