NERS NEWS — Efforts to create a healthy family environment continue through health education in the community. Students of the Nursing Profession Education Program, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga (Unair), conducted an educational activity entitled “The Dangers of Smoking and Cigarette Smoke in the Family” in RW 02, Sukolilo Baru Subdistrict, Surabaya, on August 3, 2026.
The activity, conducted by the Productive Age Working Group (Pokja Usia Produktif), targeted people of productive age, including fishing business groups and informal sector workers. During the activity, participants were encouraged to understand that the effects of smoking are not only experienced by smokers. Family members who inhale cigarette smoke or become passive smokers may also face various health risks.
The educational materials covered the definition of smoking, the difference between active and passive smokers, harmful substances contained in cigarettes, the health impacts of smoking, and the dangers of cigarette smoke exposure to family members. Participants also received information about the importance of creating a smoke-free home.
Interactive Educational Approach
To make the materials easier to understand, the activity was conducted through lectures and interactive discussions. Participants were not only asked to listen to the materials but were also given opportunities to ask questions, engage in discussions, and share challenges in implementing a smoke-free home. Leaflets were also used to support participants’ understanding of the information provided. The activity consisted of preparation, participant registration, opening, material delivery, discussions, question-and-answer and evaluation sessions, followed by closing and documentation.
The activity took place in an orderly and interactive atmosphere. Participants showed enthusiasm in following the materials and answering the questions provided. The evaluation also indicated an improvement in participants’ understanding of the dangers of smoking and cigarette smoke within the family environment.
From Knowledge to a Commitment to a Smoke-Free Home
The activity did not stop at increasing knowledge. Participants were also encouraged to take concrete steps to protect their families from cigarette smoke exposure. These included implementing a no-smoking rule inside the home and vehicles, encouraging family members who smoke to quit, and supporting family members who are trying to stop smoking.
The evaluation results showed that participants were able to explain the dangers of smoking and cigarette smoke and understand measures that can be taken to protect family members. Participants also demonstrated an awareness of the importance of not smoking inside the home and supporting the creation of a smoke-free family environment.
Participants’ enthusiasm was evident through their active involvement during the question-and-answer session. The evaluation also recorded that participants were able to answer the evaluation questions correctly and participate in the activity from beginning to end according to the predetermined targets.
Through this activity, Nursing Profession students of Unair not only provided health information but also encouraged the community to take an active role in creating a healthier family environment.
Writer: Vena Melisa Akasir
