Prevalence and predictors of indoor secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure among the Nigerian household population: evidence from the Demographic and Health Survey 2024

Prior research shows a severe burden of secondhand smoke (SHS)-related morbidity and mortality across sub-Saharan Africa. However, despite high susceptibility to SHS-related health issues, no study has assessed the situation of SHS among Nigerian household members. Therefore, we analyzed the most recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2024 data and assessed the prevalence and predictors of indoor SHS exposure among 175,892 household members. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out. The prevalence of indoor SHS was 15.49%. Being male (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13 to 1.21), having never married (aOR: 1.10; 95% CI: 1.51 to 1.68), being an urban resident (aOR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.13), belonging to a bigger household size (aOR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.03), having a richer wealth index (aOR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.90 to 2.27), having achieved a higher education status (aOR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.51 to 1.68), and having access to mobiles (aOR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.23), computers (aOR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.19), and televisions (aOR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.05–1.17) were positively associated with indoor SHS. Regional variations were also significantly associated with indoor SHS. Importantly, the prevalence of indoor SHS is alarmingly high in Nigeria. Particularly, males, never-married, and educated individuals are at higher risk. The higher wealth quintile is positively associated with indoor SHS. Access to mobile phones, computers, and televisions intensifies indoor SHS. Policy reforms reducing tobacco use and health education interventions for smoke-free homes are discussed and recommended.