Tobacco Smoking in Islands of the Pacific Region, 2001-2013

Prev Chronic Dis. 2015 Dec 3:12:E212. doi: 10.5888/pcd12.150155.

Abstract

We provide an overview of tobacco smoking patterns in Pacific island countries and territories to facilitate monitoring progress toward the goal of a Tobacco-Free Pacific by 2025. We examined data from 4 surveys conducted in the region between 2001 and 2013, including the STEPwise approach to surveillance for adults (25-64 years); the Global School-Based Student Health Survey and the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (students 13-15 years); and the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (grade 9-12 students) in United States affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPIs). Adult smoking prevalence ranged from less than 5% of women in Vanuatu to almost 75% of men in Kiribati. Smoking prevalence among students (13-15 years) ranged between 5.6% and 52.1%. There were declines in smoking among youths in many USAPIs. To achieve the tobacco-free goal and reduce disease burden, accelerated action is needed to align national legislation with international agreements and build capacity for tobacco control at all levels.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Surveys*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacific Islands / epidemiology
  • Prevalence
  • Sex Factors
  • Smoking / epidemiology*
  • Students
  • Young Adult