Smoking patterns in the USSR

Abstract

Smoking is widespread in the USSR. The prevalence of smoking among males ranges from 35-80%, although some of the very high rates may be the result of surveying selected population groups. Smoking appears to be more frequent among young people, and the proportion of adolescent smokers is high. There are reported to be fewer women smokers (about 10%) than in most countries of Europe and North America. The per capita production of smoking materials (cigarettes and papyrossi) increased substantially during the post-war period, reached its maximum in the year 1971, and decreased thereafter. The highest per capita sales of smoking materials were reported in the years 1976-1980, and they have declined slightly since. Presently, 70% of the smoking materials produced in the USSR are cigarettes. The proportion of filter cigarettes has increased from 1.1% in 1963 to 30% in 1982. However, about 90% of cigarettes produced in the USSR still fall within the category of high-tar cigarettes (20 mg/cigarette and over). To avoid a continuation of the increase in the frequency of smoking and, consequently, an increase in mortality from lung cancer and other diseases caused by smoking, serious consideration should be given to a wide range of smoking control measures.