Intention to quit smoking: is the partner's smoking status associated with the smoker's intention to quit?

BACKGROUND

Smoking behavior among couples is often similar.

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between the partner's smoking status and the intention to stop smoking of the index person.

METHOD

Cross-sectional data of 1,044 patients in a random sample of 34 general medical practices in northeastern Germany were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among smokers with a non-smoking partner (SNP), more intended to quit smoking in the next six months (37.0% vs. 31.4%), compared to smokers with a smoking partner (SSP). Also, more SNP intended to quit in the next four weeks (4.7% vs. 2.7%) compared to SSP. SNP were more active in the use of self-change strategies than SSP.

CONCLUSION

The data confirm that the partner's smoking status is related to the intention to quit smoking. Interventions should address the different needs of both smokers with a smoking partner and those with a non-smoking partner.