Abstract

Background & Objectives: Smoking is a global problem and is the most important cause of death due to noncommunicable diseases. This study was conducted to evaluate smoking and its correlates in male students in South Khorasan. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was undertaken in South Khorasan on high school male students. A sample of 2371 cases was selected through cluster multi stage sampling. The data was collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS software using chi-square and logistic regression tests. Results: The prevalence of smoking was 12.3 per cent (285 cases).The most important motivating factors for smoking for the first time were curiosity, joy. The most important predictors of smoking were hookah consumption, the presence of a smoker in or outside the living place, and a negative attitude to smoking. Working father and education regarding smoking risks were preventive factors. Conclusion: Special education and public awareness about the risks of smoking and establishment of consultation centers for adolescents can be major steps toward the prevention and control of smoking among students.