Smokers' beliefs about the health benefits of smoking cessation - 20 U.S. communities, 1989

Article Abstract:

In an era when the health risks of smoking are well-documented, what do smokers themselves believe about their potential health gains if they stop smoking? This was addressed in a telephone survey of 4,351 smokers carried out between January and April 1989 in 20 US communities. Smokers were asked to tell how likely it was that they would avoid or encounter fewer serious health problems due to smoking if they stopped, and to describe the extent of their agreement with a statement that ''little health benefit would accrue to someone who stopped after more than 20 years of smoking.'' Eighty-three percent responded that it was ''likely'' or ''very likely'' they would avoid or decrease health problems by stopping; they also generally disagreed with the statement. These results were significantly more likely to be true for college-educated people. Overall, educational level is the best sociodemographic predictor of smoking. Antismoking campaigns should pay attention to the educational levels of the groups they want to affect. Smokers aged 55-64 who had not attended college had the least knowledge of the possible benefits of stopping smoking. A new campaign, aimed at smoking cessation among older Americans, has been started by the Office on Smoking and Health of the Centers for Disease Control. Information regarding the campaign can be obtained through: Office on Smoking and Health, CCDPHP, CDC, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857; telephone (301) 443-5287. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Beliefs, opinions and attitudes

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Beyond the clouds - tobacco smoking in China

Article Abstract:

China should act aggressively to reduce the rate of smoking or it will suffer rising rates of tobacco-related illnesses and death. Earlier studies showing lower risks from smoking in China, compared to the US, only identified the initial health effects. Chinese are starting to smoke earlier and are smoking more. Cigarettes are expected to kill more than previously estimated. Strict limits on advertising and packaging, regulation of nicotine, market barriers, and increased antismoking efforts are necessary to avert the public health and economic costs of smoking.

Editorial, China, Patient outcomes, Mortality, Tobacco industry, Chinese, Chinese (Asian people)

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Effect of smoking reduction on lung cancer risk

Article Abstract:

The effects of smoking reduction on incidence of the major histologic sub-types of primary lung cancer were examined in a study. Smoking reduction by 50% was found to significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer among individuals who smoked 15 or more cigarettes per day.

United States, Risk factors, Lung cancer

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