[Changes in the population smoking patterns: Barcelona, 1983-2006].

OBJECTIVE

To describe the distribution of smoking in the population and to assess existing trends.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Cross sectional study in a sample of the resident non-institutionalized population over 14 years of age (n = 6,050) in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain) using the Health Survey of 2006 and comparing trends for 1983-2006 with previous surveys. Independent variables included sex and age. Dependent variables were having ever been a smoker, quitting, and being a current smoker. Prevalence and proportions were estimated, stratifying or adjusting for age.

RESULTS

The prevalence of daily smokers was 27.3% for men and 20.6% for women. Age groups smoking more were 25-34 years for men and 35-44 for women. From 1983 to 2006 the decline for men was sharp, and the prevalence for women is now decreasing. The change accelerated progressively for men, in absolute and relative terms. Estimating the probability of quitting for smokers, there was an increase in cessations over this period. The proportion of smokers of an older age is now much smaller.

CONCLUSIONS

The evolution of the smoking epidemic over the last years shows promising trends. Quit rates have increased, and the decline in prevalence increases among men and has started in women. Smokers are increasingly becoming a minority, although to improve public health it would be desirable to speed the process of change.