Profiling of Smokers and Snuffers Among Young Finnish Men

Objectives: The aim of this study was to profile young smokers and snuffers. This was investigated in association with restorative treatment need, oral hygiene, eating habits, physical activity, BMI, psychological, and socio-economic factors.

Methods: This cross-sectional study is part of the “Oral health of the conscripts 2011” project, which was carried out in 20 garrisons of the Finnish Defence Forces in 2011.
The study group comprised 3,420 conscripts (mean age 19.6 years). The data combined four different references: health examination including oral health screening, computer-based questionnaire for investigating individual background factors, outcomes of cognitive skills in the psychological test and Cooper test. Statistical analyses comprised cross tabulation and binary logistic regression modelling.

Results: Prevalence of only smoking, only snuffing and dual use were 25.8%, 9.7% and 10.1%, respectively. The Odds for smoking were greatest among those who had DT>0, used energy drinks or alcohol regularly, or whose parents were divorced. Score ≥2.900 meters in Cooper test, higher physical exercise level, higher own education level and using sports drinks daily/occasionally were all protective factors against smoking.
Odds for snuffing were significantly higher among those who ran >2.500 meters in Cooper test, had BMI ≥25, used sports or energy drinks and exercised regularly. Good results in psychological test (P-score 8-9) was protective factors against snuffing. Using energy or sports drinks daily/occasionally or alcohol weekly were associated with dual use. Higher education level decreased odds for dual use.

Conclusions:
Smoking is associated with other harmful health habits. In Finland, snuffing has also become more common. Along with increasing prevalence of snuffing, heterogeneity is likely be seen among snuffers. Both habits have harmful effects on general and oral health. New ways should be investigated to promote life style without smoking and snuffing.