Abstract
The pattern of stability/change in smoking status was examined annually in 254 community-dwelling polydrug users over 3 years. Respondents' smoking status was classified as nonsmoker, intermittent smoker, or 'everyday' smoker. Results showed that the typical probability of retaining the same smoking status across any two consecutive assessments was: 0.77 for nonsmokers (never smokers and former smokers combined), 0.82 for everyday smokers, and 0.16 for intermittent smokers. The transition matrix proved stable across three observations; the predicted equilibrium distribution matched well with observed distributions. Fifty-five percent of intermittent smokers converted to everyday smoking within a year, but 29% converted to former-smoker status in the same period. No other transition exceeded 12%. Considerable flux in individual smoking status, particularly among intermittent smokers, was observed despite stable prevalence of smoking status in this population. Intermittent smoking status appeared to be a temporary 'way station' between the two more stable everyday smoker and nonsmoker classifications. Results challenge current assumptions about 'occasional' or 'chipper' smokers. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 143-149 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Addictive Behaviors |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2001 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Markov Chain analysis
- Natural history
- Polydrug users
- Smoking cessation
- Smoking status
- Tobacco use
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Clinical Psychology