A Community-based Cross-sectional Study of a Tiered Mental Health Support Model for Frontline Workers in Andhra Pradesh during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND

Tobacco use continues to be a major public health concern in India despite the enactment of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Young adults in higher education are particularly vulnerable to initiation, making assessment of their awareness and compliance with tobacco legislation crucial.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional online study was conducted among 366 students in Health professional and technical courses at a deemed university in Gurugram using stratified random sampling. A validated 25-item Google Form questionnaire assessed students' awareness, attitude, and perceptions regarding compliance with COTPA. Responses were statistically analyzed with significance set at P ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

With a response rate of 40.6%, awareness of COTPA varied significantly across disciplines. Medical and dental students showed higher awareness of smoke-free campus regulations (92.9% and 91.8%) than engineering students (76.5%, P = 0.001). Support for punitive measures was strong overall (75.6%), but lower among engineering students (56.1%) compared to medical students (85.7%). Nearly 45% reported tobacco vendors within restricted zones. Perceived enforcement was weak, with only 36% acknowledging institutional action.

CONCLUSION

Students demonstrated moderate awareness and positive attitude towards tobacco laws but significant enforcement gaps persist. Strengthening COTPA implementation in educational institutions is essential to protect young adults and advance tobacco control.