Spatial Analysis of Cigarette Smoking among Cambodian Americans in Long Beach, CA

As part of ongoing research regarding smoking among Cambodian Americans, we used GIS methods to characterize the spatial distribution of smokers. The study was conducted in Long Beach, CA, home of the largest Cambodian community outside of Cambodia. Identification of clusters of smokers aids in development of targeted smoking cessation interventions in this high smoking prevalence population. Respondents (n=1,414) were from a stratified random sample obtained from 15 census tracts with high concentrations of Cambodian Americans. A cross-sectional survey collected data on demographic characteristics and tobacco use history. Current smokers were defined as persons who had smoked 100 cigarettes or more in their lifetime and smoked as of the interview. Multivariate logistic regression analyses examined demographic predictors of smoking status. Spatial analysis discerned underlying smoking patterns, which might not be readily apparent in conventional statistical analyses. Choropleth maps with proportional shading and corresponding probability levels identified significant predictors of current smoking. The prevalence of current smokers was 13.0%; the sex-specific prevalence of smoking was 24.4% for men and 5.4% for women. The odds of being a current smoker were 6.81 times (95% CI=4.58, 10.12) higher among men than women. Age, education, marital status, and health status were statistically significant predictors for being a current smoker. Using logistic regression and geographic information system maps, we identified clusters of current smokers who tended to be younger, unmarried men, with less than a college education, and in fair or poor health. We describe applications of these finding in targeted smoking cessation programs.