The Effectiveness of Training based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on Tobacco Consumption Patterns among Students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences

Background: It is estimated that tobacco use, as the second leading cause of death, is responsible for one-tenth of all deaths worldwide. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of training based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on tobacco consumption patterns among students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences. Methods:  This study was quasi-experimental that was performed on 65 students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences who were assigned by random sampling design with proportional allocation in the experimental and control groups. After collecting the baseline data, the researcher-made questionnaire was designed based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and tobacco consumption’s questions with acceptable validity and reliability of the training program in six sessions for the experimental group. Two months after the training, the same questionnaires were completed by both groups. Data were analyzed by independent t-test, Chi-squared test, and Fisher's exact test with SPSS-20 at a significance level of P <0.05. Results:  The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants in the experimental and control groups was 21.46 (1.96) and 22.22 (3.02), respectively (P = 0.076). Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between demographic characteristics, pattern of tobacco consumption, and TPB model constructs. After the intervention, the mean score of the constructs of TPB, except for subjective norms, and knowledge of the intervention group increased (p<0.05). Besides, use of cigarette and hookah was significantly decreased in this group (P=0.003). Conclusion: The results showed that training based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and providing preventive skills is a significant effect on consumption and refusal to use tobacco.