Prevalence of smoking, occupational stress level, and associated factors among nursing faculty members in Palestine: a multicenter nationwide survey

On 27 December 2025, Ashraf Jehad Abuejheisheh published a new study in “BMC Public Health” titled “Prevalence of smoking, occupational stress level, and associated factors among nursing faculty members in Palestine: a multicenter nationwide survey”. This study examined the prevalence and associated factors of smoking and occupational stress levels among nursing faculty members in Palestinian universities and colleges. Findings indicated a smoking prevalence of 37.2%, with cigarettes being the most commonly used tobacco product. Key factors influencing smoking behavior included peer influence, stress relief, and cultural norms. Gender and marital status were also significant, with females and single participants demonstrating higher smoking rates. In terms of occupational stress level among participants, nearly half (47%) experienced moderate to extremely severe levels of stress. The results showed a moderate negative correlation between occupational stress and age (r = -0.275, p < 0.001). Also, smoking status was significantly associated with occupational stress levels (p-value = 0.027), with current smokers reporting higher occupational stress levels than non-smokers and former smokers. For more information about the study, please contact the main author at (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the scientific research office at (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

First and Corresponding author:

Ashraf Jehad Abuejheisheh, RN, MSN, CNS, PhD; Assistant Professor, Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Professions, Al-Quds University, Abu Dis, Jerusalem-Palestine. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Article link:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-025-26047-z