Objectives: We assessed differences in trends, prevalence, and sociodemographic correlates of current smoking among several predominant Hispanic/Latino heritage groups (Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, Central and South Americans, and other Hispanic/Latinos) in New York City (NYC). We additionally compared current smoking prevalence between heritage groups and non-Hispanic/Latino Whites.
Design and methods: Data from the Community Health Survey, a representative, dual-frame landline/cellphone survey, were analyzed to assess age-adjusted prevalence of current smoking, separately among heritage groups from 2003-2016. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios and 95% CIs for current smoking by Hispanic/Latino heritage group relative to non-Hispanic/Latino Whites in combined 2012-2016 data. Logistic regression was also used to examine correlates of smoking among each heritage group, separately.
Results: Between 2003-2016, current smoking prevalence decreased among all Hispanic/Latinos heritage groups except Puerto Ricans, who had the highest smoking prevalence among all groups examined. Sex-stratified trend analyses showed decreases among all groups except Puerto Rican and other Hispanic/Latino males. In multivariable-adjusted models, relative to non-Hispanic/Latino Whites, there was no association with current smoking among Puerto Ricans, but odds of smoking were lower among all other heritage groups. Female sex was inversely associated with current smoking among all heritage groups, and acculturation was positively associated with smoking among all groups except Central/South Americans. Lower educational attainment was strongly associated with smoking among Puerto Ricans.
Conclusions: Lack of progress in reducing smoking among Puerto Ricans in NYC is concerning. Opportunities for cultural, sex-specific, and other targeted outreach to this community should be explored.
Keywords: Cigarette Smoking; Health Disparities; Latino Health; New York City; Tobacco Use.
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