[Smoking among members of the Japan Society of Chest Diseases].

A survey of the smoking habits and attitudes toward smoking among all members of the Japan Society of Chest Diseases has been carried out. Of the 6,224 members of the Society who were sent a voluntary questionnaire, 3,640 (58.5%) responded. Of the 3,640 respondents, 24.8% were smokers, 39.4%, ex-smokers and 35.9%, non-smokers. The prevalence of smoking was lower than among physicians in general in Japan, which is estimated to be 39%, and much lower than the rate for the general male population (61.1%). For ex-smokers, the long-term health risks were the most important reason for giving up smoking, followed by the desire to set an example as medical personnel. The great majority of respondents (91.7-97.3%, depending on smoking status) believed that smoking should be restricted in certain places. Hospitals and clinics had the highest percentage for places where smoking should be restricted. About two-thirds of the respondents also believed smoking should be restricted at medical meetings.