Correlates of Smoke-Free Home Policies in Shanghai, China

Abstract EN

Background.

Approximately 63.7% of nonsmokers in China are exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS) in their homes.

The current study documents the prevalence and correlates of smoke-free home policies in Shanghai, as well as reasons for implementing such a policy and places where smoking is most commonly allowed.

Methods.

We conducted in-person surveys of 500 participants using a multistage proportional random sampling design in an urban and suburban district.

Results.

Overall, 35.3% had a smoke-free home policy.

In the logistic regression, having higher income, not having smokers in the home, having children in the home, having fewer friends/relatives who permit smoking at home, and not being a current smoker were correlates of having a smoke-free home policy P<0.05.

Concern about the health impact of SHS was reportedly the most important reason for establishing a smoke-free home.

Among participants with no or partial bans, the most common places where smoking was allowed included the living room (64.2%), kitchen (46.1%), and bathroom (33.8%).

Conclusions.

Smoke-free home policies were in place for a minority of households surveyed.

Establishing such a policy was influenced by personal smoking behavior and social factors.

These findings suggest an urgent need to promote smoke-free home policies through tobacco control programs.