Predictors of smoking among US college students

Abstract

Objectives: This study explored predictors of smoking among a large, representative national sample of students enrolled in American 4-year colleges.

Methods: A sample of undergraduate students, randomly selected from 140 colleges, was sent a detailed questionnaire that included questions about smoking status.

Results: The 30-day smoking prevalence was 22.3%; 25% of the participants were former smokers. Multivariate analyses suggested that, among college students, men are less likely to smoke than women. In addition, high-risk behaviors (e.g., marijuana use) and lifestyle choices (e.g., nonparticipation in athletics) increased the likelihood of being a smoker.

Conclusions: This study's findings have important implications for health education and promotion among college populations.