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BACKGROUND: Smoking within students community of the medical sciences can negatively impact the attitudesof the society in future. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence and trends of smoking amongstudents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. METHOD: This study was conducted in four consecutive years from 2006 to 2009. The study sample was takenfrom the first- to fourth-year, undergraduate and graduate (doctorate) students of Tehran University of MedicalSciences. Census was applied for sampling. Structured questionnaires were distributed to students of each class.The study was anonymous and self-administered. RESULTS: From 2006 to 2009, a total of 1568 to 1761 students participated in the study each year. Over thestudy period, i.e. 2006-2009, the prevalence of cigarette smoking was decreased (the overall prevalence was12.5% in 2006, 12.9% in 2007, 10.8% in 2008, and 10.5% in 2009). The corresponding values for the onemonth prevalence were 8.2%, 7.8%, 6.1%, and 5.8%, while those for the prevalence of daily smoking were3.4%, 4.0%, 2.9%, and 1.8%, respectively. The decreasing trend was particularly more significant for femalestudents. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the prevalence of smoking among students of Tehran University ofMedical Sciences was in the lower end of the spectrum, in comparison to other universities in Iran and othercountries. Additionally, similar to the pattern observed in the developed world, this trend was decreasing, particularlyamong girls. Implementing preventive measures for accelerating the decreasing trend, as well as continuousmonitoring is recommended.
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OBJECTIVE: There is evidence to show an increase in use of stimulant substances among university students. This study is a qualitative assessment of the existing situation and the underlying reasons for stimulant use among the students of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2006. METHODS: Three qualitative methods have been used: focus group discussions with 7 groups (60 individuals) consisting of male and female students in the dormitories and in the university environment, in-depth interview with 20 drug user students, and interview with 20 key informants including counselors, managers and guards of dormitories, staff of the office for Culture and Welfare Affairs of students and members of students' organizations. Purposeful or opportunistic method was used for sampling. RESULTS: Ecstasy and methylphenidate (Ritalin) were mentioned as the stimulants used by the students. The main declared reasons for ecstasy use were desire to have fun and excitement, desire to modernity, participation in parties, curiosity and living without family. The high expense of ecstasy pills and the training provided by media were mentioned as the main protective factors. Most respondents believed that use of methylphenidate was more prevalent than ecstasy use. In contrary to the drugs used for fun and enjoyment, methylphenidate is used for increasing learning abilities and academic achievement. Other pointed- out factors were ease of use and being stigma-free. Conclusion Increasing risk perception via training, social alternatives to risky activities and parental training for continuing care and advice in the college period are recommended.