Prospective Examination of Cigarette Smoking Among Iraq-Deployed and Nondeployed Soldiers: Prevalence and Predictive Characteristics. Issue 1 (29th January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harte, Christopher B.; Proctor, Susan P.; Vasterling, Jennifer J.
• Is Part Of: Annals of behavioral medicine. Volume 48:Issue 1(2014)
• Page Start: 38
• Page End: 49
• Publication Date: 2014-01-29
• Subjects: Cigarette smoking -- Predictors -- Military -- Operation Iraqi Freedom -- Deployment -- Longitudinal; Medicine and psychology -- Periodicals; Sick -- Psychology -- Periodicals; Behavioral Medicine; 616.0019
• DOI: 10.1007/s12160-013-9584-5
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-6612

Abstract

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.