“Vietnamese people would rather stop eating than stop smoking”

: A qualitative interview study about smoking in relation to health in Northern Vietnam

Abstract

Background: Previous research shows that smoking is a major global public health issue. Vietnam is one of the countries in the world that has the highest percentage of smokers in its population, and they also have a long cultural history linked to tobacco. Smoking contributes to chronic diseases, air pollution, and premature death. Therefore, smoking is an obstacle to achieve the SDGs. Aim: The aim was to explore the conceptions and experiences regarding smoking with a specific focus on health aspects among university students and teachers in Northern Vietnam. Method: The study was conducted with a qualitative method in the form of semi-structured interviews, where seven teachers and five students participated. An inductive content analysis was used, codes were produced which then formed categories and subcategories. Result: The respondents were aware of the dangers of smoking as well as second-hand smoking, and how it affects our health. Information about smoking does not affect the Vietnamese smoking culture. People smoke because of a stressful lifestyle and as a way to relax. Socio-economic status did not affect the prevalence of smokers but did affect what type of cigarettes the buyers could afford. The majority of smokers in Vietnam is men because of historical and cultural values. Conclusion: The results show that smoking is perceived to have a negative effect on people’s health, the environment, and the economy. The deep-rooted smoking culture causes difficulties in reducing tobacco use. Future research needs to be carried out with a focus on cultural aspects of smoking to provide new initiatives with the best possible result of decreased smoking prevalence.

Date of Award	2022-Jun
Original language	English
Supervisor	Åsa Bringsén (Supervisor) & H. Ingemar Andersson (Examiner)