Number of young smokers up in Azerbaijan

The number of young smokers in Azerbaijan has increased in 2008, a recent study revealed.

Irada Yagubova, head of the ELS Independent Research Center, which conducted the survey in six higher and 14 secondary schools, said 34 per cent of the 800 students said they smoked.

The figure among male students has risen from 39 per cent in 2007 to 46 per cent, while the number of female smokers - from 8 to 17 per cent.

52 per cent of those polled said they were exposed to cigarette smoke the most in public places. Many are also concerned over exposure in educational institutions, public transport, at home and in the workplace.

The study was conducted jointly with the Ministries of Health, and Youth and Sports.*