National Journal of Community Medicine · Published 2026-07-01 · DOI 10.55489/njcm.170720266237
Background: Second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure during pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Understanding pregnant women’s knowledge and attitudes toward SHS is essential for developing effective preventive interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 330 pregnant women attending three primary healthcare centers in Al-Suwaira, Wasit, Iraq, from February to June 2025. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a validated questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge (22 items), and attitudes (12 items) regarding SHS. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Most participants were aged 18–27 years (66.1%), non-smokers (93.9%), and exposed to SHS at home (64.8%). Overall, 53.6% demonstrated intermediate knowledge, 36.3% poor knowledge, and only 10.1% good knowledge regarding SHS. Positive attitudes toward SHS avoidance were observed in 58.2% of participants. Knowledge and attitude levels were significantly associated with several socio-demographic factors, including age, residence, educational status, economic status, smoking-related characteristics, and SHS exposure patterns (p<0.05). Multivariable analyses identified age, education, economic status, husband’s smoking status, public-place SHS exposure, and frequent SHS exposure as significant predictors of knowledge and/or attitude. Conclusion: Pregnant women exhibited limited knowledge but generally positive attitudes toward SHS during pregnancy. Targeted health education and strengthened smoke-free policies are needed to reduce SHS exposure and improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.
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Jawad, A. (2026). Pregnant Women's Knowledge and Attitude Toward Second-Hand Smoking During Pregnancy at Primary Health Care Centers in Al-Suwaira City. National Journal of Community Medicine. https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.170720266237