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Annals of Behavioral Medicine
Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine 1/2014

01-08-2014 | Original Article

Prospective Examination of Cigarette Smoking Among Iraq-Deployed and Nondeployed Soldiers: Prevalence and Predictive Characteristics

Authors: Christopher B. Harte, Ph.D., Susan P. Proctor, DSc, Jennifer J. Vasterling, Ph.D.

Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Background

Identifying characteristics that influence smoking behavior among military personnel is critical to protect health and operational functioning.

Purpose

This study prospectively examined rates of cigarette smoking and predictors of changes in smoking behavior as a function of Iraq deployment.

Methods

One thousand eighty-two US Army soldiers (n = 773 Iraq-deployed; n = 309 nondeployed) completed assessments at two sessions [time 1: April 2003–July 2004; time 2: May 2004–July 2004 (nondeployers); January 2005–September 2006 (deployers)].

Results

Approximately 48 % of participants smoked at both time points, with 6 % initiating smoking and 6 % quitting. Smoking initiation was associated with warzone stress exposure; female gender and high military unit support predicted cessation. Military rank and alcohol use were associated with both smoking initiation and cessation.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the potential benefits of targeting risk factors for cigarette smoking in comprehensive military health programs aimed at smoking prevention and cessation.
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Metadata
Title
Prospective Examination of Cigarette Smoking Among Iraq-Deployed and Nondeployed Soldiers: Prevalence and Predictive Characteristics
Authors
Christopher B. Harte, Ph.D.
Susan P. Proctor, DSc
Jennifer J. Vasterling, Ph.D.
Publication date
01-08-2014
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Annals of Behavioral Medicine / Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 0883-6612
Electronic ISSN: 1532-4796
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-013-9584-5

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