Socioeconomic disparities in age of initiation and ever tobacco smoking: Findings from Romania

Abstract

Aim: Smoking initiation is considered the fundamental behaviour that determines the future health burden of tobacco smoking in a society. The aim of the study was to evaluate the socio-demographic factors associated with initiation of regular smoking among adults. Methods: The data source was the 2011 Global Adult Tobacco Survey Romania (GATS), which is a cross-sectional, nationally representative study. Multivariate logistic regression model was applied for relevant analysis. Results: Among males, the regular smoking initiation rate was significantly higher compared to females (52.4% vs. 18.5%; p < 0.001). Mean age of smoking initiation was lower in men compared to women (18.4 ± 4.8 vs. 21.5 ± 6.8; p < 0.001). Age in men, awareness of environmental tobacco smoke consequences and place of living for women as well as educational attainment and employment status in both genders were associated with ever regular smoking. Moreover, cohabitation with a smoker was associated with greater odds for initiating smoking among both genders. Conclusions: GATS revealed a significant but diverse role of socioeconomic factors in initiation of regular smoking among adult Romanians.