Impact of Cigarette Smoking on the Anthropometric Parameters and Academic Performance of Undergraduate Students of Rivers State University

Background to the study: Cigarette smoking is a known lifestyle factor that contributes to the pathogenesis of certain diseases. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of cigarette smoking and anthropometric parameters on the academic performance of undergraduate students at Rivers State University. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 400 undergraduate students who were selected by the simple random sampling method. Data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaires to assess lifestyle behaviors and academic performance. Academic performance was assessed by self-reported CGPA and academic behaviors (class attendance, completion of assignments, number of failed courses in the last session, average studying hours and review of lecture materials before exams). Anthropometric parameters (weight, height, waist circumference and hip circumference) were measured using standard methods. Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio were calculated using their respective formulae. Results: The prevalence of cigarette smoking amongst undergraduate students was 8.3%. Smokers had a significantly lower mean BMI (20.88 ± 2.70 kg/m²) than non-smokers (23.02 ± 4.26 kg/m²) (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of smokers and non-smokers (p>0.05), even though more smokers (18.2%) rated themselves below average than non-smokers (10.1%). Smokers exhibited poorer academic behaviors than non-smokers, such as a higher course failure rate (54.5% vs. 46.0%), fewer study hours, lower class attendance and less consistent assignment completion. However, more of the smokers (48.5%) could always review their lecture materials shortly before examinations as opposed to non-smokers (43.9%). The BMI of smokers was significantly reduced compared to non-smokers, but smoking status did not have any significant effect on the waist and hip circumferences as well as the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of respondents. Conclusion: These findings suggest that while cigarette smoking may not directly impair academic grades, it could negatively affect study habits and overall academic engagement. Therefore, targeted health education and behavioral interventions are recommended to discourage smoking and promote healthier lifestyles among university students.