Learning Objectives: Describe the proportion of current U.S. daily smokers, aged 18 and older, by stage of change, and selected sociodemographic characteristics.
Abstract: Population-based national estimates of stage of change among current smokers are unknown. This study described the proportion of U.S. daily smokers, 18 and older, by stage of change. Selected sociodemographic characteristics were delineated. Cross-sectional data was collected via telephone or face-to-face interview in daily smokers who responded to the Current Population Survey in either 1992-93 (n=39706), 1995-96 (n=34865) or 1998-99 (n=30153). Main outcomes included stage of change: 1) Precontemplation – not interested in quitting smoking in next 6 months; 2) Contemplation – interested in quitting smoking in next 6 months but not next 30 days; 3) Preparation – interested in quitting smoking in next 30 days and stopped at least one day during past year.During 1992-93, 59.1% of respondents were precontemplators, 33.2% contemplators and 7.7% in preparation stage. This distribution was similar in subsequent surveys (1995-96; 1998-99). Gender differences were not apparent. Whites were more likely to be precontemplators. As education and income increased, the percentage in precontemplation decreased. Rural residents were more likely in precontemplation and less frequently in preparation. Little movement in stage of change was apparent in the U.S. during the 1990’s and proportions are similar to recent published estimates from several European countries.
Back to Evaluation and Surveillance Posters
Back to Evaluation and Surveillance
Back to The 2002 National Conference on Tobacco or Health