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. 2011 Nov;53(11):1337-45.
doi: 10.1097/JOM.0b013e3182337778.

Occupation and workplace policies predict smoking behaviors: analysis of national data from the current population survey

David Cal Ham  1 , Thomas Przybeck, Jaime R Strickland, Douglas A Luke, Laura J Bierut, Bradley A Evanoff
Affiliations

Occupation and workplace policies predict smoking behaviors: analysis of national data from the current population survey

David Cal Ham et al. J Occup Environ Med. 2011 Nov.

Abstract

Objective: Describe differences in smoking behaviors associated with occupation, workplace rules against smoking, and workplace smoking cessation programs.

Methods: We analyzed data from the Current Population Survey-Tobacco Use Supplement surveys from 1992 through 2007.

Results: After adjusting for demographic factors, blue-collar workers were at higher risk than white-collar workers for ever smoking, current smoking, and persistent smoking (current smoking among ever smokers). Construction workers were more likely to be current daily smokers than other blue-collar workers. Among ever smokers, current daily smoking was more common in the absence of both workplace rules against smoking and workplace smoking cessation programs.

Conclusions: Social or cultural effects related to occupation are important determinants of smoking. More aggressive promotion of smoking cessation programs and workplace rules prohibiting smoking could have a significant public health impact.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Smoking behaviors by occupational group 1993 – 2006
Figure 2
Figure 2
Workplace smoking policies by occupational group 1993 – 2006
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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