The cigarette smoking experience of pregnant Latinas in the United States

Cigarette smoking is harmful to pregnant women and their babies. Although there is a considerable body of knowledge about cigarette smoking and smoking cessation behavior, Latinas in the United States have been included in only a few studies. This research was conducted to explore the smoking and smoking cessation experiences of pregnant Latinas. Sixteen English-speaking pregnant Latina smokers participated in 1 of 4 focus group discussions of smoking-related experiences. Thematic content analysis of data resulted in the elaboration of 3 processes inherent in smoking and smoking cessation for participants: how these Latinas used smoking in their daily lives, how pregnancy influenced their smoking, and what quitting was like for them. Strong family influences were evident in all themes. Recommendations include the development of culturally appropriate, tailored tobacco control programs that engage family members in the smoking cessation process.