Factors Influencing Smoking Behavior Among Women in Pakistan: Insights from MICS 6 Survey

Abstract

This research aims to identify the rapid growth of the smoking epidemic, especially among women, in contrast to the gradual decrease in smoking among men in Pakistan. The study analyzes quantitative data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) using a sample of 2,475 women. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the data. The results show that older women were more likely and educated women were less likely to use tobacco. Women from most economically affluent households were significantly less likely to smoke. Married women were less likely to smoke cigarettes when compared to unmarried women. The review of the literature reflected those sociocultural aspects such as changing roles of men and women, advertising attractiveness, and tobacco marketing may be some of the pertinent factors contributing to the rising trend of smoking among women in Pakistan. The study also calls for extending tobacco prevention and cessation strategies for young women of childbearing age and gender-sensitive health policy interventions. Some measures entail specific antismoking crusades that motivate women and increase tobacco advertisement control. The findings of this study are intended to inform the development of public health interventions and to enhance tobacco control efforts.