Prevalence of Paan use among High School Boys of Zahedan in 2007 and its Contributory Factors

Background & Aims: considering the risks and complications resulting from tobacco use this study was performed to find the prevalence of paan use and its correlates among high school boys in Zahedan during the academic year 2007. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 292 high school boys of Zahedan were selected randomly. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic information and paan use and to determine the rate of current users (at least once during the last 30 days) and life time users (at least once or twice in their life). Data were analyzed by using chi square test and SPSS 14 software. Results: In whole, 58 students (19.9%) were current users and 29.9% had used paan during their life time. Paan consumption showed significant relationship with parents’ educational level, educational statue of students, family size, the number of cigarette smokers in the family and ethnicity (P<0.05), while it has no significant relationship with age. Conclusion: paan use among Zahedan high school boys is prevalent and indicates the necessity of preventive programs in schools.