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Cigarette continuity programs and social support for smoking
W Sumner1, M Dunaway, D G Dillman
1Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Archives of Family Medicine
|May 22, 1998
Summary
Many smokers participate in cigarette continuity programs, often forming teams with family and friends. These programs can reinforce smoking habits across generations, highlighting potential risks for younger family members.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Sociology
Background:
- Cigarette continuity programs are marketing strategies used by tobacco companies.
- These programs often involve collecting coupons or points for rewards.
- Understanding participation patterns is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate smokers' engagement with cigarette continuity programs.
- To determine the prevalence and structure of cooperative teams formed by smokers within these programs.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 176 current smokers.
- Data collected included smoking histories and continuity program participation.
- Statistical analyses (Fisher exact test, chi2 tests) compared proportions.
Main Results:
- One in three smokers participated in continuity programs, with most redeeming their own coupons.
- Coupon collectors formed teams averaging over two members, often including multiple family generations.
- A notable proportion of collectors aged 24-35 involved their children as teammates.
Conclusions:
- Continuity programs effectively reinforce smoking behavior, particularly within familial and social networks.
- These programs foster intergenerational smoking and brand loyalty.
- Awareness of risks, such as promoting smoking initiation in children, is essential for participants and health advocates.