South Africa: Non-daily smokers

A South African study found that most non-daily smokers are those trying to quit smoking rather than those initiating smoking, suggesting that health practitioners should target non-daily smokers for smoking cessation interventions. Almost 70% of non-daily smokers had smoked daily in the past and currently smoke significantly fewer cigarettes on the days they smoke (5.4) than current daily smokers (9.8); they were also more likely to live in smoke-free homes, to have attempted to quit smoking, and to be younger than age 25 years.
"Epidemiological profile of non-daily smokers in South Africa: Implications for practice"
South African Family Practice 2009; 51(3): 244-248 (open access)
http://www.safpj.co.za/index.php/safpj/article/view/1167

Date Posted: 21 September 2009