Tobacco Use Prevalence and Associated Factors Among Male Artisans in Port Harcourt

Background: Tobacco use is a major modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases, and occupational groups such as artisans in urban industrial areas are disproportionately affected. This study determines the prevalence and associated factors of tobacco use among male artisans in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in the South South geopolitical zone. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 male artisans recruited from automobile workshops, welding yards, and carpentry workshops through random sampling. A validated questionnaire assessed tobacco use patterns, reasons for smoking, and quit attempts. Results: The prevalence of current tobacco use was high among respondents. Peer influence and occupational stress were the most cited initiation factors. Knowledge of tobacco-related health risks was low, and cessation support utilisation was negligible. Conclusion: High tobacco use prevalence among artisans in Port Harcourt reflects the need for targeted cessation programmes within occupational settings. Family medicine services should integrate tobacco use screening and brief counselling into primary care consultations for male workers in artisanal occupations. Keywords: tobacco use, artisans, smoking, Port Harcourt, occupational health