Assessing the Relationship between Students’ Knowledge and Smoking Habits-Related to the Risk of Bronchitis at Escola Secundária Geral 10 De Dezembro, Comoro, Dili, Timor-Leste, 2024

Introduction: Bronchitis, a respiratory disease characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, poses significant health risks, particularly among adolescents. With rising smoking rates among youth, understanding the relationship between student knowledge of smoking and its associated risks is crucial.  Objective: This study aims to assess the correlation between students’ awareness of smoking-related health risks, particularly bronchitis, and their smoking behaviours at Escola Secundária Geral 10 de Dezembro in Comoro, Dili, in 2024.  Research Method: A quantitative cross-sectional approach was employed, targeting 345 students. Using the Taro Yamane formula, 40 respondents were selected. Data was collected through interviews and questionnaires, and analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 21, focusing on univariate and bivariate analyses.  Results & Discussion: Findings revealed that 85% of students exhibited poor knowledge regarding the dangers of smoking and its link to bronchitis. Only 17.5% reported good smoking habits, while 82.5% displayed harmful smoking behaviours. A significant Chi-Square value of 11.037 (p < 0.001) indicated a strong correlation between knowledge levels and bronchitis risk, confirming that increased awareness is associated with reduced smoking prevalence and associated health risks.  Conclusion: The study highlights a critical need for enhanced health education programs targeting smoking awareness and respiratory health among adolescents. Improving knowledge can potentially mitigate smoking rates and reduce the incidence of bronchitis, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts from educators and health advocates to implement effective interventions.