Abstract

The smoking-related variables for smokers and nonsmokers were studied in Nablus Area, in the West Bank. The population study included a questionnaire filled out by 9900 West Bankers living in cities, villages and camps, representing different occupational and educational levels. The study included 5400 smokers and 4500 nonsmokers. This investigation showed that the average body weight of smokers was lower than that for nonsmokers, but the average height was higher. The onset of smoking was found to be directly encouraged by peers and siblings, and indirectly encouraged by brothers and parents. The age-started smoking was found to be 18.2 years in males, and 21.6 years in females.