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Regional variation in smoking among African Americans
G King1, A P Polednak, R Bendel
1Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16801, USA. GXK14@PSU.edu
Preventive Medicine
|August 14, 1999
Summary
African American smoking rates vary significantly by region and urbanicity. Black women in the South showed lower smoking prevalence compared to other gender/region groups, highlighting the importance of these factors.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Sociology
Background:
- Geographic region and metropolitan residence impact on smoking prevalence among African Americans remain understudied.
- Understanding these disparities is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the influence of geographic region and metropolitan residence on smoking prevalence within the African American population.
- To identify specific demographic and regional factors associated with smoking behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 5 years (1990-1994) of data from the National Health Interview Survey.
- Inclusion of 16,738 African American participants.
- Multivariate logistic regression to adjust for sociodemographic covariates.
Main Results:
- Smoking prevalence was lowest in the West and highest in the Midwest.
- African Americans in non-central cities had lower smoking rates than those in central cities.
- Black women in the South were significantly less likely to smoke compared to other gender/region groups.
Conclusions:
- Gender and regional factors significantly influence African American smoking behavior.
- Social history, stress, racism, and cultural factors likely play a role.
- Community structures and coping strategies are important considerations for smoking cessation efforts.