Secondhand Smoke Knowledge, Attitude, and Avoidance Behavior in a Highly Urbanized Area in Iloilo City

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and avoidance behaviors regarding secondhand smoke exposure among household heads in a highly urbanized area in Iloilo City. Specifically, the study sought to describe the respondents’ demographic profile and examine the relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and avoidance behaviors toward secondhand smoke exposure. Study Design: This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design. This paper reports the quantitative component of a larger mixed-methods study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a selected barangay in Iloilo City, Philippines, a highly urbanized area characterized by densely populated households. Data collection was collected in January 2026. Methodology: The study included 361 household heads aged 18 years and above in a highly urbanized barangay in Iloilo City, Philippines, using convenience sampling to ensure geographical representation. Data collection was carried out in January 2026, with all targeted respondents completing the survey (100% response rate). The instruments underwent validation by three expert validators, and reliability testing showed acceptable to excellent internal consistency. Signed informed consent and ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection. Results: A total of 361 respondents participated in the study. The majority of respondents were female (65.1%), aged 18–25 years (37.1%), and had college-level education (40.2%). Respondents demonstrated favorable knowledge regarding SHS health risks (M = 13.88/16, 86.74%), supportive attitudes toward preventing exposure (M = 4.09/5), and consistent avoidance behaviors in several situations (M = 2.95/4). Spearman’s rho analysis showed a significant but very weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (rs = 0.175, p < 0.001), no significant relationship between knowledge and avoidance (rs = −0.045, p = 0.397), and a weak positive correlation between attitude and avoidance behavior (rs = 0.398, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Household heads generally showed favorable knowledge of the health risks of secondhand smoke exposure, though avoidance behaviors varied across households. Strengthening health education and community interventions may help improve consistent avoidance practices. Further studies in different settings are recommended to enhance the generalizability of the findings.