Cigarette smoking in the USA: sociocultural influences.

During the period 1971-1979 the prevalence of cigarette smoking slightly decreased. The prevalence of cigarette smoking was lower among regular churchgoers and older people. Higher prevalences of former smokers of cigarettes were found among men, people with a higher education and whites. It was possible to formulate hypotheses on the influence of three sociocultural factors on smoking behaviour. The decrease of cigarette smoking can be related to the distribution of antismoking information, although the relative influence of antismoking campaigns, statutory measures, etc. cannot be estimated. With respect to sex differences in smoking behaviour the emancipation of women appears to be largely complete. The correlation between regular churchgoing and less cigarette smoking indicates an influence of puritanical norms.