Community health Assessment: Research-based findings of demographic and behavioral characteristics associated with smoking

Media repeatedly inform public how harmful smoking is on health of not only the smoking persons but also of others who are exposed to secondhand smoking. However, there are people who remain smoking. Based on the health needs, preferences, and utilization assessment survey conducted in four rural counties in central Michigan, community health related to smoking habit was examined. Over 3,000 surveys were returned and analyzed. More than 18% were found to be smokers. Several demographic variables such as age, gender, education level, family income and county of residence were found to be significantly associated with the smoking status of the residents. Some health behaviors including whether or not drink alcohol, exercising frequency, and preventive health (such as medical check-up frequency) were also found to be significantly associated with the residents' smoking status. Findings in this study will allow community health professionals to pinpoint the target population, which, in turn, is believed to contribute to developing effective interventional approaches.