Objective: This study aimed to determine university students’ awareness and beliefs regarding thirdhand smoke. Methods: Conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional study, 359 university students participated. Data were collected using the Thirdhand Smoke Awareness Scale and the Thirdhand Smoke Beliefs Scale. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were performed to evaluate the data. Results: Students demonstrated generally high awareness and belief scores regarding thirdhand smoke (mean awareness score: 4.05 ± 0.70; belief score: 3.97 ± 0.76). Nonsmoking students had significantly higher awareness and belief levels compared with smokers ( p <.05). Additionally, students residing in smoke-free environments scored significantly higher on these scales ( p <.05). A positive and significant correlation was found between thirdhand smoke awareness and beliefs ( p <.05). Conclusion: Although university students demonstrate high levels of awareness and belief regarding thirdhand smoke, awareness of its environmental persistence remains insufficient and should be further enhanced. It is recommended that educational programs and public health campaigns be expanded to raise awareness on this issue.
Türkmenoğlu et al. (2026) studied this question.