Date of Publication

8-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Medical Biology

Subject Categories

Public Health

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Jowi Tsidkenu P. Cruz

Defense Panel Chair

John Martin S. Mondragon

Defense Panel Member

Eligio S. Maghirang
Ralph R. Rebello

Abstract (English)

The increasing prevalence of smoking among Filipino youth, especially undergraduate students, has raised growing concerns regarding its associated health behaviors. While tobacco and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use are commonly perceived as social or stress-related habits, emerging observations suggest that some students may associate smoking with appetite control. This study aimed to examine the association between cigarette use—both tobacco and e-cigarettes—and appetite suppression among college students in Metro Manila. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 156 undergraduate students from universities in the University Belt. Respondents completed a structured online survey disseminated via Google Forms. The survey collected demographic data, smoking behaviors, and self-reported appetite patterns. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess the association between smoking variables and appetite-related outcomes. Of the 156 respondents, half reported using tobacco cigarettes while the other half used e-cigarettes. The majority were female students aged 21–23 and in their senior year. More than half reported smoking daily. Results showed that tobacco use had a stronger association with appetite suppression than e-cigarette use. Specifically, 35.9% of tobacco users reported using cigarettes to suppress appetite, compared to 21.8% of e-cigarette users. Additionally, a higher percentage of tobacco users (58.97%) reported experiencing weight loss associated with their smoking, as compared to e-cigarette users (25.64%). The study found that smoking behavior—particularly tobacco use—is significantly associated with changes in appetite patterns and self-reported appetite suppression. While both tobacco and e-cigarette users demonstrated altered eating behaviors, the association was more pronounced among tobacco users. However, the study does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship; other confounding factors, such as health conditions or the use of medications and substances, may also influence appetite patterns. These findings offer practical insights for health educators and university health offices by underscoring the need to correct misconceptions about smoking as a means of appetite control. Campaigns and intervention programs can be designed to address these beliefs, particularly the notion that tobacco use can replace meals or support weight management. By understanding the behavioral motivations of student smokers, institutions can develop more targeted, relatable, and effective health education strategies tailored to college populations.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

"-"

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Tobacco—Physiological effect; Electronic cigarettes; Appetite depressants--Philippines--Metro Manila; College students--Philippines--Metro Manila

Upload Full Text

wf_yes

Embargo Period

8-11-2025

Download

Share

COinS