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Characteristics of low-level smokers
Andrew Hyland1, Hamed Rezaishiraz, Joseph Bauer
1Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Department of Health Behavior, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA.
Summary
Low-level smokers are an increasing group with distinct characteristics and motivations for quitting. This population shows higher cessation rates than heavier smokers, suggesting unique intervention needs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Tobacco Control
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Average daily cigarette consumption has declined, with a potential rise in "some day" smoking.
- Limited understanding exists regarding the characteristics and behaviors of low-level smokers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and compare low-level smokers with heavier smokers.
- To analyze patterns of low-level smoking over time and its association with smoking cessation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Community Intervention Trial for Smoking Cessation (COMMIT).
- Employed cross-sectional surveys (1988, 1993) and a longitudinal cohort (1988, 1993, 2001) of 6,603 smokers.
- Defined low-level smokers and analyzed demographic, behavioral, and motivational factors.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of low-level smoking increased from 7.6% in 1988 to 10.7% in 1993.
- Low-level smokers were more likely to be female, older, non-married, minority, college-educated, and live without other smokers.
- They initiated their first cigarette later in the day and cited different quitting reasons (e.g., setting examples, secondhand smoke) compared to heavier smokers.
Conclusions:
- Low-level smokers represent a growing segment with unique profiles and potentially different health risks.
- Despite lower use of nicotine replacement therapy, low-level smokers demonstrated higher cessation rates.
- Tailored interventions may be necessary to address the specific needs of this growing population.