Socioeconomic correlates and biochemical profiles of smokers in Poland: a cross-sectional study

Epidemiological studies have shown a fairly constant association between the socioeconomic status and smoking. However, associations between smoking and the biological indicators of health status have not been well described yet.

This study aimed to determine the relationship among smoking, biochemical risk factors, and sociodemographic characteristics in the Polish population.

A survey was carried out in a representative sample of Polish residents aged 18 to 79 years. A total of 2413 randomly selected subjects participated in the survey. Logistic regression analysis as well as parametrical and nonparametrical tests were performed.

Significantly higher cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and potassium levels were observed in smoking women and men compared with the nonsmoking population. Significantly lower bilirubin levels were noted in smoking individuals. Higher C‑reactive protein and lower creatinine levels were reported only in the smoking male population compared with nonsmokers. There was a significant inverse gradient in the relationship between income and smoking. Single women and men were at greater risk of being smokers (odds ratio [OR], 1.9 and 2.39, respectively). Individuals from small towns (less than 50 000 inhabitants) were at significantly greater risk of smoking compared with those living in rural areas (OR, 1.45 and 1.64 in women and men, respectively).

We found differences regarding socioeconomic characteristics and major biochemical parameters between smokers and nonsmokers in Poland. However, it is difficult to establish which associations are causal for cardiovascular risk owing to the cross‑sectional design of this study.