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Patterns of smoking in Bulgaria
D Balabanova1, M Bobak, M McKee
1European Centre on Health of Societies in Transition, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.
Tobacco Control
|March 27, 1999
Summary
Bulgarian smoking rates are rising, particularly among younger adults in cities. Effective tobacco control policies require understanding these smoking patterns and sociodemographic links.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Sociology
Background:
- Bulgaria faces rising smoking-related deaths despite current low rates.
- Growing pressure from transnational tobacco companies exacerbates the issue.
- Limited data exists on smoking patterns, hindering effective policy development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate smoking patterns in Bulgaria.
- To analyze the relationship between smoking and sociodemographic factors.
Main Methods:
- Multivariate analysis of nationwide survey data.
- 1550 adults surveyed in Bulgaria in 1997.
- Prevalence of current cigarette smoking was the main outcome measure.
Main Results:
- Current smoking prevalence: 38.4% of men, 16.7% of women.
- Strong age association: peak rates in 30-39 age group, declining sharply in older adults.
- Higher prevalence in urban areas, among widowed/divorced individuals, and non-homeowners. Education association varied by gender.
Conclusions:
- Urgent need for a robust tobacco control policy in Bulgaria.
- Targeted interventions for young urban populations are crucial.
- Further research is needed to understand variations in smoking rates across different demographic groups.