Health problems in teenage daily smokers versus nonsmokers, Norway, 1995-1997: the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study

Abstract

Increased morbidity among teenage smokers has been reported, but specific current health problems and medication use other than of alcohol and narcotics have received less attention. The aim of this study was to examine the association between health problems and daily smoking in teenagers. Ninety percent of all teenagers attending junior high or high schools participated in a cross-sectional study conducted in Nord-Trøndelag County, Norway, 1995-1997; included were 8,040 students aged 13-18 years. Information on smoking habits, health problems, medication use, and use of health services was obtained in schools by self-administered questionnaire and by interview. Fifty-five percent of boys and 57% of girls had tried smoking, and 9% and 11%, respectively, reported current daily smoking. When compared with boys and girls who had never smoked, daily smoking among both sexes and all age groups was associated with significantly poorer perceived health, respiratory symptoms, headache, neck and shoulder pain, stomachache, nausea, frequent heartbeats, nervousness/restlessness, and sleep problems. Daily smokers used more medications and health services. Daily smoking by adolescents is already associated with multiple somatic health problems. Whether or not the association is causal, daily smoking identifies a group of adolescents with health problems for whom preventive strategies should also include medical and social support.