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Gender and ethnic differences in readiness to change smoking behavior
J Audrain1, A Gomez-Caminero, A R Robertson
1Lombardi Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
Women'S Health (Hillsdale, N.J.)
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Gender and ethnic differences in smoking cessation were examined. Women reported lower confidence and more pros/cons of smoking than men, indicating a need for tailored interventions.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Psychology
Background:
- The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) is widely used for smoking cessation research.
- Limited research exists on gender and ethnic variations in TTM constructs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender and ethnic disparities in stages of change, perceived pros and cons of smoking, and self-efficacy among smokers.
- To address the gap in understanding how these differences impact smoking cessation efforts.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 330 adult smokers (ages 18-75) seeking smoking cessation treatment.
- Assessment of gender and ethnic differences in readiness to quit, perceived benefits and costs of smoking, and confidence in quitting.
Main Results:
- Women (30%) reported lower confidence in quitting compared to men (53%).
- Women perceived more pros and cons associated with smoking than men.
- White smokers reported more pros of smoking than African American smokers.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the necessity of enhancing quitting confidence among women smokers.
- Identifying smoking alternatives relevant to women smokers is crucial for effective cessation programs.