Public Education and Awareness

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 22 views

The Relationship Between Smoking and Blood Glucose Levels in USU Engineering Students in 2016

Introduction

Smoking is a serious health problem that has been increasing in Indonesia, making it the third country with the highest number of smokers in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of smokers in Indonesia is rising, and this has led to an increase in the incidence of diseases caused by cigarettes, including diabetes mellitus. Nicotine, a key component of cigarettes, can affect the work of insulin, leading to a decrease in insulin sensitivity in body tissues and an increase in blood glucose levels. This study aims to investigate the relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels in USU engineering students in 2016.

The Importance of Studying Smoking and Blood Glucose Levels

Smoking is a major risk factor for various health problems, including diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and cancer. The relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels is complex, and it is essential to understand the impact of smoking on metabolic health. This study is significant because it aims to determine the relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels in a specific population, namely USU engineering students in 2016.

Methodology

This study used an analytic design with a latitude cut approach. The sampling technique used was Consecutive Sampling, which produced 58 research subjects from the Faculty of Engineering, University of North Sumatra. The smoking habit of the subjects was measured through interviews, while blood glucose levels were taken through venous blood tests in the USU FK Biochemical Laboratory. The data obtained was then processed using the SPSS computer program.

Results

The results of this study showed that the average blood glucose level in the subjects was 98.67 mg/dl. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test showed that there was no significant relationship between the degree of smoking and the blood glucose level of fasting (p = 0.081). Additionally, the results of the ANOVA test also showed no relationship between the type of cigarette and blood glucose levels during (p = 0.229), and there was no relationship between the length of smoking and blood glucose levels during (p = 1,000).

Additional Analysis and Explanation

The results of this study suggest that there is no significant relationship between smoking habits and blood glucose levels in engineering students in USU. This may be due to various factors, such as eating patterns, physical activity, or genetic factors that also affect individual blood glucose levels. Although this research does not find a significant relationship, it is essential to continue educating the public about the health risks caused by smoking.

The Importance of Public Education and Awareness

Smoking can trigger various other health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Therefore, controlling cigarette consumption and raising awareness about a healthy lifestyle is an essential step to take, especially among the younger generation. Public education and awareness programs can help to reduce the negative impact of smoking in Indonesia.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to understand more about the long-term impact of smoking on metabolic health, including its effect on blood glucose levels. Broader research with diverse populations can provide more comprehensive insight into the relationship between smoking habits and other metabolic disorders. With a systematic approach and ongoing evaluation, we hope to better understand the factors that affect public health and reduce the negative impact of smoking in Indonesia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels in USU engineering students in 2016. The results of this study suggest that there is no significant relationship between smoking habits and blood glucose levels in this population. However, it is essential to continue educating the public about the health risks caused by smoking and to control cigarette consumption. Further research is needed to understand more about the long-term impact of smoking on metabolic health.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Public Education and Awareness: Public education and awareness programs should be implemented to educate the public about the health risks caused by smoking.
Control of Cigarette Consumption: Efforts should be made to control cigarette consumption, especially among the younger generation.
Further Research: Further research is needed to understand more about the long-term impact of smoking on metabolic health, including its effect on blood glucose levels.
Broader Research: Broader research with diverse populations can provide more comprehensive insight into the relationship between smoking habits and other metabolic disorders.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

Small Sample Size: The sample size of this study was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Specific Population: This study was conducted on a specific population, namely USU engineering students in 2016, which may not be representative of the general population.
Cross-Sectional Design: This study used a cross-sectional design, which may not allow for the establishment of causality between smoking and blood glucose levels.

Future Directions

Future research should aim to address the limitations of this study and provide more comprehensive insight into the relationship between smoking habits and metabolic health. This can be achieved through the use of larger sample sizes, more diverse populations, and longitudinal designs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Relationship Between Smoking and Blood Glucose Levels

Q: What is the relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels?

A: The relationship between smoking and blood glucose levels is complex, and it is not yet fully understood. However, research suggests that smoking can affect insulin sensitivity and increase blood glucose levels.

Q: Can smoking cause diabetes?

A: Yes, smoking can increase the risk of developing diabetes. Nicotine, a key component of cigarettes, can affect the work of insulin and lead to a decrease in insulin sensitivity in body tissues.

Q: How does smoking affect blood glucose levels?

A: Smoking can affect blood glucose levels in several ways. Nicotine can increase the production of glucose in the liver, leading to an increase in blood glucose levels. Additionally, smoking can decrease insulin sensitivity, making it more difficult for glucose to enter cells.

Q: Is there a relationship between the degree of smoking and blood glucose levels?

A: Research suggests that there is no significant relationship between the degree of smoking and blood glucose levels. However, further research is needed to confirm this finding.

Q: Can smoking affect blood glucose levels in non-diabetic individuals?

A: Yes, smoking can affect blood glucose levels in non-diabetic individuals. Research suggests that smoking can increase blood glucose levels in non-diabetic individuals, even if they do not have diabetes.

Q: What are the health risks associated with smoking and blood glucose levels?

A: The health risks associated with smoking and blood glucose levels include an increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Smoking can also increase the risk of developing other health problems, such as cancer and respiratory disease.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of developing diabetes and other health problems associated with smoking?

A: To reduce your risk of developing diabetes and other health problems associated with smoking, you should:

Quit smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Engage in regular physical activity
Eat a healthy diet
Get regular check-ups with your healthcare provider

Q: Can I still participate in this study if I am a smoker?

A: Yes, you can still participate in this study if you are a smoker. However, you will be required to provide information about your smoking habits and undergo a blood glucose test.

Q: How long will the study take?

A: The study will take approximately 1-2 hours to complete. You will be required to provide information about your smoking habits and undergo a blood glucose test.

Q: Will I receive any compensation for participating in the study?

A: Yes, you will receive compensation for participating in the study. The amount of compensation will be determined by the study's protocol.

Q: Who should I contact if I have any questions or concerns about the study?

A: You should contact the study's principal investigator or research coordinator if you have any questions or concerns about the study. They can be reached at [insert contact information].