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Smoking during pregnancy in the 1990s
Summary
Maternal smoking during pregnancy declined overall in the 1990s, but teenage smoking rates increased, with significant racial and ethnic disparities persisting. In 1999, 12.3% of births were to mothers who smoked.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Smoking during pregnancy remains a significant public health concern in the United States.
- Understanding trends and demographic variations in maternal smoking is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends and variations in smoking during pregnancy across the United States from 1990 to 1999.
- To examine demographic factors associated with smoking during pregnancy, including maternal age, race, ethnicity, and birth outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized descriptive tabulations of data from birth certificates.
- Analyzed smoking prevalence during pregnancy based on mother's age, race, ethnic origin, place of birth, state of residence, birth order, and birthweight.
Main Results:
- A nationwide decline in smoking during pregnancy was observed from 1990 to 1999, with 12.3% reporting smoking in 1999.
- Teenage smoking rates (15-19 years) initially declined but then rose, becoming the highest among all age groups by 1999.
- While smoking rates decreased across racial and ethnic groups, significant disparities persisted, with American Indian, non-Hispanic white, and Hawaiian women exhibiting the highest rates, and Chinese and Central/South American women the lowest.
Conclusions:
- Despite an overall decrease, smoking during pregnancy remains a concern, particularly among teenagers.
- Persistent racial and ethnic disparities highlight the need for culturally tailored public health strategies to reduce smoking rates during pregnancy.